Smouse
Drew & Ellie Holcomb brought their Memory Bank tour to the historic Fitzgerald Theater Sunday evening, delivering a night of music filled with warmth, wholesome family values, and heartfelt connections. The duo, known for their nutrient-filled songwriting and engaging stage presence, crafted an evening that felt as much like a family gathering as it did a concert.
The show opened with Drew & Ellie taking the stage alone. The opening song, “Where You Gonna Go,” immediately pulled the fans into the Holcombs’ signature blend of folk, Americana, and storytelling. The entire first set of the night was stripped back without the full band, which expertly focused everyone’s attention on the duo’s close-knit harmonies and effortless energy.
Showcasing songs off their newest release Memory Bank, “High Seas” carried the momentum with its lighter melody, soaring harmonies, and lyrics aimed at getting through rough times together. Ellie Holcomb then played “Spring Sings,” the first single off her own upcoming album connected to her newest children’s book.
One of the highlights that fits a recurring theme with the Holcomb’s is the charitable acts they extend to their musical entourage on tours. In 2023 at First Avenue, Drew Holcomb stepped off stage and let his merch attendant perform a solo song. Last night we saw them welcome a duo named Small Time to the stage. Their blend between The Weepies and Jackson Browne was a welcome addition to the show.
After the first of many singalongs with “Never Gonna Let You Go,” Drew & Ellie climbed into the audience to play “Rain or Shine” together. With cell phone flashlights scattered throughout the theater, this moment was another layer into the bonds Drew & Ellie feel with their fans.
After intermission the full band took the stage and opened with “Green Light,” an energetic and infectious tune that set the tone for what was to come. “You Drive Me Crazy” was an adorable way to show how different each partner can feel in a marriage when being driven crazy. A cover of “Shut Up and Dance” injected a playful energy into the theater. “Where Can I Go – Psalm 139” provided a beautiful contrast, grounding the set with its spiritual depth.
One of the more emotional moments of the night came with “I Will Carry You,” a song that showcased Ellie Holcomb’s angelic vocals and lyrical poignancy. “Find Your People” followed, erupting the space with singing and shouting along. Ellie then took center stage for a breathtaking solo piano rendition of “Constellations,” a moment that was met with hushed reverence.
The final stretch of the show started with a tribute to Nashville’s Bluebird Cafe with Drew & Ellie trading short versions of their songs back and forth. It quickly reminded everyone just how many songs and memories that have sprung forth from Drew & Ellie’s career. As this portion of the show came to a close, a little girl yelled out “I love you Ellie,” which melted the entire audience in awwws. Ellie humbly responded by saying the girl was a “national treasure.”
“Feels Like Home” was a pinnacle moment. This song is a prime example of the warmth and blend of instrumentation Drew & Ellie do so well to invoke nostalgic memories of our place and families in life.
Drew & Ellie Holcolmb not only play music, but they invite the audience into their world, weaving together stories, melodies, and emotions into an unforgettable evening. Poignantly named The Memory Bank tour, Sunday’s show at the Fitzgerald Theater is a testament and proof of their ability to make every listener feel at home.
Comments
0 comments