Shows & Schedule

Brian Fallon & The Horrible Crowes at Newport Folk Festival - 2015

On July 24, 2015, Brian Fallon and his side project, The Horrible Crowes, delivered a memorable performance at the Newport Folk Festival. The festival, known for its diverse lineup and historic significance in American folk music, provided the perfect backdrop for The Horrible Crowes’ evocative and intense set.

The Horrible Crowes: A Brief Overview

Formation and Musical Style
The Horrible Crowes is a side project formed by Brian Fallon and guitarist Ian Perkins. Known for its darker and more introspective sound compared to Fallon's main band, The Gaslight Anthem, The Horrible Crowes’ music blends elements of rock, blues, and soul, with lyrical themes often exploring personal struggles and emotional depth. Their debut album, Elsie (2011), showcased this new direction and was well-received for its raw and intimate approach.

Newport Folk Festival Performance

Set and Atmosphere
The Newport Folk Festival, held annually in Newport, Rhode Island, is renowned for its celebration of folk and acoustic music, but it also embraces a variety of genres and innovative performances. In 2015, The Horrible Crowes brought a unique energy to the festival, presenting a set that highlighted Fallon’s powerful songwriting and vocal delivery.

During their performance, Fallon and Perkins focused on the haunting and atmospheric tracks from Elsie. The setlist likely included some of the album's standout tracks, such as:

• "Behold the Hurricane" - A powerful track that exemplifies the emotional intensity and lyrical depth of The Horrible Crowes.
• "Ladykiller" - Known for its brooding, bluesy vibe and evocative lyrics.
• "Crush" - A song showcasing the band's ability to combine personal reflection with a broader emotional resonance.
• "Cherry Lane" - A track that captures the melancholy and introspective mood characteristic of their music.

The performance was marked by Fallon's distinctive voice and the duo's ability to create a deeply immersive atmosphere. Their set stood out for its emotional intensity and the contrast it provided to the festival’s typically folk-focused lineup.

Audience Reception and Impact

The audience at Newport Folk Festival appreciated The Horrible Crowes’ departure from the mainstream folk and Americana sounds prevalent at the festival. Fallon’s raw and heartfelt delivery resonated with attendees, who were treated to a set that was both introspective and compelling. The performance underscored Fallon’s versatility as an artist and showcased the depth of his songwriting beyond his work with The Gaslight Anthem.

Legacy of the Performance

The 2015 Newport Folk Festival performance by Brian Fallon and The Horrible Crowes remains a significant moment in both the festival’s history and Fallon's career. It highlighted his ability to explore different musical styles and emotional landscapes, offering fans a glimpse into a more personal and reflective side of his artistry. The set was a testament to the festival’s commitment to showcasing diverse and innovative musical acts, reinforcing its reputation as a platform for artistic exploration and excellence.

Overall, the performance was a notable addition to the Newport Folk Festival’s storied history and a memorable event for fans of Brian Fallon and The Horrible Crowes.