Josh Tillman, better known as his stage name, Father John Misty, has been making solo records for years. Long before and during his time drumming for Fleet Foxes, he released records as J. Tillman. Ever since coining the FJM moniker, Tillman’s popularity has soared. Not only because his records are great, but because he’s an engaging performer who is often hilarious, but always very much a showman. You don’t get that package very much from an artist, so when you do, you better appreciate it.
Last night Father John Misty continued his run in New York City with a very sold out show at Bowery Ballroom for Valentine’s Day. The show was in support of his newly released record I Love You, Honeybear, an incredibly strong album that I’m convinced will remain a favorite amongst listeners from now until the list making begins next year.
He stormed out of the gate with the title track “I Love You Honeybear,” going straight to the crowd, grabbing hands in the front row, as well as a girl cellphone, transforming her video into more a performing selfie. That’s the kind of performer Tillman is, willing to grab props such as a Valentine’s day balloon from a fan, and let it float beside him as he entertains. For such a big guy he has a great deal of movement and energy, performing bombastic slides, laying down in dramatic fashion almost consistantly.
His 20-song set featured plenty of material from both Honeybear and Fear Fun, with enthusiastic receptions for tracks taken from the latter. From “Hollywood Forever Cemetery Sings,” to “Everyman Needs A Companion” and “Nancy From Now On,” they were all hits with the crowd, proof that Tillman has really captured something special as Father John Misty. Only two albums into the project, and he already has a handful of highly regarded classics to show off.
Between his humor (one fan asked what his favorite Beatles song is, and he replied “All the ones I’m ripping off”), and his willingness as a performer (running through the crowd during “Holy Shit”), he’s constantly entertaining and wowing you. Not no mention two albums worth of unforgettable material. Father John Misty has emerged as a can’t miss performer, one that I really hope you can see during this tour.
Support came from Guy Blakeslee of The Entrance Band, who performed solo, yet still was very much impressive.
Father John Misty Setlist:
1. I Love You, Honeybear
2. Strange Encounter
3. True Affection
4. Only Son of the Ladiesman
5. When You’re Smiling And Astride Me
6. The Night Josh Tillman Came To Our Apartment
7. I’m Writing a Novel
8. Nothing Good Ever Happens At The Goddamn Thirsty Crow
9. Chateau Lobby #4
10. Nancy From Now On
11. This is Sally Hatchet
12. The Ideal Husband
13. Hollywood Forever Cemetery Sings
14. Funtimes in Babylon
15. Now I’m Learning to Love the War
16. Holy Shit
Encore:
17. Bored In The USA
18. I’m Your Man (Leonard Cohen)
19. Everyman Needs a Companion
20. I Went to the Store One Day
Guy Blakeslee:
Father John Misty:
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