In Manchester’s O2 Apollo, the crowd’s excitement has been steadily building to a fever pitch as we wait in anticipation for Josh Tillman, known around the world as Father John Misty.
Tillman has enchanted the world for over a decade with his psychedelic-tinged sound and winding storytelling. Fear Fun, his debut album, introduced the world to Misty – his satirical lyricism (prominently featured in “I’m Writing a Novel”) and new kaleidoscopic take on indie rock. Each ensuing album has unveiled a new aspect of Misty, I Love You Honeybear chronicles his relationship with his wife Emma whereas Pure Comedy’s outlook towards society and consumerism is soaked in nihilism.
The crowd cries out in joy as the lights quickly fade to a warm ambient orange and the band walk on stage. Misty appears in a sleek black suit and approaches the microphone. The sudden opening drumbeat of “I Guess Time Just Makes Fools of Us All” signals the beginning of the concert and the band joins the melody: smooth sax, keyboard and guitar all waiting for Misty to complete the ensemble.
Misty is above all a storyteller and when he sings it’s a form of self-expression. His voice is soft, effortlessly infused with wit, charisma and passion. The crowd sways to the funk-inspired melody as Tillman comes to the front of the stage. His stagemanship is infectiously charismatic but mysterious, you can’t help but watch him as he speaks directly to the audience…
“Oh, I guess time just makes fools of us all”
The concert continues with the slow soft rock sounds of “Josh Tillman and the Accidental Dose”, where Misty’s direct narrational style comes to the forefront. When the song fades, the audience waits in silence for less than a moment before nostalgic chimes signal the beginning of “The Night Josh Tillman Came to Our Apt.”. The romantic, nursery-rhyme melody is contrasted by the dark sardonic lyrics of the narrator. The crowd knows every line and can’t help but sing along.
Next, the stage lights flutter as the strong drumbeat of “Disappointing Diamonds Are the Rarest of Them All” begins. The shiny 70s rock bounce and blazing saxophone build and fade to a more melancholic pitch with each chorus. Although it’s a love song, in classic Misty style it centres around boredom and feeling trapped.
After the song fades, the lights change to a deep blue in a dramatic shift from the fuzzy warm orange tones we’ve become accustomed to. The gentle winding guitar resembles a vintage folk song and “Goodbye Mr. Blue” begins with the lyrics
“This may be the last time,
Last time I put on my shoes,
Go down to the corner and buy the damn cat the expensive food”
The song is hopelessly sad, asking: “Don’t the last time come too soon?” What starts as a lament about a pampered cat is slowly revealed to be a man mourning his relationship. We all sway, hopelessly hypnotised by what is one of Misty’s most beautiful songs.
Next, the clunky marching bassline of “She Cleans Up” begins, as the track approaches the chorus Misty’s vocals become more feverish, louder, more rock n’ roll. He grooves, mic in hand, a silhouette dancing across the stage. Misty’s cool body language and vocal strength make him an unforgettable live performer!
After the ritually departing, Misty returns for the encore, “Chateau Lobby #4”. A true love song, you can feel Misty’s devotion, passion and awe towards his wife. It recalls their courtship and his quick realisation that she is the love of his life.
You left a note in your perfect script
“Stay as long as you want”
And I haven’t left your bed since
The crowd comes alive, near-shouting the lyrics back at Misty, a perfect end to the night!
Other songs to check out!
- God’s Favourite Customer: https://open.spotify.com/track/78CQRUOPcWssbTnYAX0ZMM?si=deffa86074a64542
- So I’m Growing Old on Magic Mountain: https://open.spotify.com/track/6ZVUeBk7Y9EGG1l6OBplU1?si=c63455352dde4a6f
- Nothing Good Ever Happens at the Goddamn Thirsty Crow: https://open.spotify.com/track/0vR9f0mBdf8NViD33NerJU?si=f9ef7afea3f04bf2