CONCERT REVIEW:Jazz-influenced Rock: Lucid Fate

Continuing our Lucid Fate watch, the guys played their first outdoor concert on Saturday night. They played a half hour set for our church’s youth group of which Josh and Jeremy are adult leaders. It was part of our Shanty Town event.

While they still haven’t played a show with new drummer, Elijah, Lucid Fate’s sound is transforming. I originally placed them in the AltCountry section because of a similarity with Pete Yorn (see first posting about Lucid Fate). Now, though, that Jazz-influenced Rock sound of their hero, John Mayer, is really starting to come through. Josh’s lead guitar work is showing that, and despite the dropping temperatures Saturday night, the guys worked to blend their guitar sound behind Jeremy’s vocals.

Their set consisted of originals, covers, and 1 praise song that they’ve used with our youth group. The evening showcased 2 new originals, “24th Chapter” and “Preoccupied,” the latter dedicated to Jeremy’s girlfriend, Steph. They used “Closing Time” from Semisonic, because it is a favorite sing-along among our youth. (I know, not exactly the kind of song encouraged by a youth leader, but like I’ve often said, there’s a deeper meaning behind many songs that is worth exploring as a Christian).

While the outdoor setting was new for the guys, I thought being out on a slightly chilly night, listening to the gentle guitar and vocals, was a perfect setting for Lucid Fate. We had 38 youth plus adults, and the Werners lived up to connecting with this “home field” audience. Except for one heckler—who also heckles his youth pastor, the crowd asked for an encore and received another song.

Indeed, this isn’t the end of the story. There’ll be another chapter coming in the Lucid Fate adventures. Who needs a reality TV show when you’ve got a local band trying to make it? Find out about your local music scene, and get me in touch with the bands. I’d love to talk them up.

Lucid Fate’s Set List for April 17, 2004
1. When I Become
2. 24th Chapter
3. God of Wonders
4. Good (by Better than Ezra)
5. Preoccupied
6. Closing Time (by Semisonic)
Encore
7. Another Perfect Day

Check out the Lucid Fate Website, send them an email, and buy a demo CD.