Velvet April 2017 | Page 18

Gig Review: Father John Misty / Rio Dalston Cinema / 24.04.17 Described as what would be an intimate acoustic performance by one of the biggest names of modern folk music, Joshua Tillman a.k.a. Father John Misty casually walked onstage and sat at the grand piano in the centre. Having shaved his trademark beard off earlier that day, possibly signifying a new era for the singer-songwriter, Tillman proceeded to play his forthcoming album Pure Comedy in its entirety. Set in London’s Rio Dalston Cinema (genius venue choice), this show is part of a short European tour including Amsterdam and Paris, of which fans are able to apply for tickets with only a small percentage winning the chance to see their idol live, in such a unique setting. In typical Father John Misty style, between songs, Tillman satirically discusses politics, religion, Greek gods and social media whilst ensuring the audience laugh along with him. As he sits solo by his piano, and draws the show to a close with a song “so new it’s still untitled, and probably going on the next album”, it’s clear that Father John Misty hasn’t lost his sense of madness, nor his witty charm that draw even non-folk listeners towards him and his sound. Written by Tatjana Harrington-Steward SETlist 1. pure comedy 2. total entertain ment forever 3. ballad of the dying man 4. birdie 5, a bigger pape r bag 6. smoochie 7. the memo 8. leaving la 9. holy hell 10. we're only pe ople 11. untitled 17