Judah & the Lion
Old Forester’s Paristown Hall 10/5/22
Louisville KY
Kailey O. Insomnia Photographer
Cameron D. Jounalist
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Live Review
Upon the June release of their most recent album ‘Revival’, Judah & The Lion embarked on their nation-wide ‘Happy Again’ tour early this fall. This past Wednesday, the second leg of this tour brought the indie-rock band back to Louisville. The two-piece group–made up of lead singer/guitarist Judah Akers and Brian MacDonald on the mandolin and vocals–is no stranger to the city, as they’ve played numerous Louisville shows since their conception in Nashville, TN in 2011. It was clear that their followers were eager to show out this time around, as Old Forester’s Paristown Hall was packed with fans donned in bright green clothing and accessories, as requested by the band on social media.
Following an outrageously energetic and uplifting set by folk-pop four-piece The National Parks, the crowd was primed to dance and–most importantly–sing along. As the lights dimmed and the opening song began to build, the duo bounded out onto the platform, nearly skipping toward their microphones. The enthusiastic crowd cheered as they recognized the opening song as the anthemic and joyfully angst-y track ‘Take a Walk’. Aker’s powerful vocals surged through the intimate venue, and the crowd was transported to a new atmosphere, one that is embracing, empowering, and just plain fun.
The show progressed through track after track of highly danceable, energetic, and raw anthems, with overarching themes of hope, perseverance, and honesty. While the show lacked extravagant lightwork or flashy imagery, the group’s eccentric yet purely joyful and spirited performance made the show incredibly engaging and entertaining. About half-way through the show, the duo invited The National Parks to perform three crowd-favorite covers, including Kelly Clarkson’s ‘Since U Been Gone’ and (surprisingly, yet perfectly) Lil’ Jon’s Snap ‘Yo Fingers’. There was a shift in the show after this moment, and Aker was left alone on stage to play an acoustic version of the heartbreaking track ‘Why Did You Run?’. The second half of the show was markedly more contemplative and solemn, featuring their more emotional tracks as well as empowering dialogue about mental health and following your dreams. The final tracks of the show, ‘Revival’ and ‘sportz’, displayed the dynamic nature of this band, and offered a beautiful and fun ending to an evening of dancing, laughter, and even a few tears.
