The night of Tuesday, October 3rd, at The Fonda in Los Angeles will be etched in the memories of those fortunate enough to attend. The evening was a melodic journey of genre-blending excellence, courtesy of opener Cash & Skye, followed by the triumphant return of The Walkmen.

Kicking off the night, Cash & Skye took the stage with an infectious energy that immediately captivated the audience. Their genre-blending prowess, fusing elements of country and rock, created a musical landscape that was nothing short of epic. The chemistry between Skye and Cash was palpable, with Skye’s heavenly vocals weaving seamlessly with Cash’s legendary guitar work. The rhythm section, composed of drums, bass, and electric slide guitar, added depth and richness to their sound, resulting in a harmonious experience that left the crowd mesmerized.

As I sat in the pit, I could sense the anticipation in the air as The Fonda filled to capacity with fans from all corners of Los Angeles. Minutes before the curtain was raised to reveal The Walkmen, an electric buzz swept through the crowd, setting the stage for an unforgettable performance.

When the curtain finally ascended, the crowd erupted in a deafening roar of excitement. The Walkmen wasted no time in launching into their set, and the audience responded in kind. Depending on the song, you could see couples swaying in perfect unison, die-hard fans passionately belting out lyrics as if they had penned them themselves, and the entire venue seemed to tremble as the walls reverberated with the sheer intensity of the music.

The Walkmen‘s performance was nothing short of extraordinary, a testament to their musical prowess and undeniable stage presence. It was a rare treat to witness their return after a hiatus, and they did not disappoint. Their setlist was a journey through their extensive discography, with nods to their earlier work that delighted long-time fans. A particular highlight of the night was when they paid homage to Hamilton Leithauser’s early band, The Recoys, with a memorable cover that left the audience in awe. Throughout the night, the musical talent on display was off the charts, and The Fonda had not witnessed such a spectacular performance in quite some time. The Walkmen, with their signature sound and magnetic stage presence, reaffirmed their status as one of indie rock’s most iconic bands.

In conclusion, the Los Angeles concert featuring Cash & Skye as the opener and The Walkmen as the main act was nothing short of fantastic. Both acts showcased their musical range and captivated the audience with their exceptional talent. The theater was packed to the brim with enthusiastic fans who reveled in the electrifying atmosphere. It was a night that reminded everyone why live music is a cherished experience, leaving a lasting imprint on the hearts of all those in attendance. The Walkmen’s triumphant return was a momentous occasion, and Cash & Skye set the perfect stage for a night of unforgettable music.

Words by David Saxum