Walking into the Ryman is always a magical experience. Especially magical when you walk in anticipating a Gregory Alan Isakov show. Gregory played two nights at the mother church, March 29th & March 30th. I was lucky and got to be there March 30th.
Joe Purdy opened the show beautifully, he had the crowd laughing and dancing with his light-hearted and comedic commentary between songs, and had them stunned during some hard hitting acoustic songs. He ended his set with a song he wrote for the occasion, “I’m Gonna Play the Ryman.” Gregory & band ran to the stage at the conclusion of the final song and they all shared a group hug. https://www.joepurdy.com
Gregory Alan Isakov’s set was a treat and honor to witness from the start to the end. The band spread across the stage with an upright bass, violin, drums, a guitarist also playing keys, and Gregory on acoustic guitar and harmonica. The music this group of people make together always feels healing, helpful, soft yet strong, and important. When paired with the energy and feel and sounds of the Ryman, it is highlighted and enhanced in beautiful ways and was absolutely sensational.
A special moment for me was when they played, “The Universe.” Gregory said he had always dreamed about playing that song in this room, in the dark. So, all the lights went out and they played it. The room was silent, my eyes were teary, and it became a moment I won’t soon forget. A lot of healing, celebration, release, and love were shared in the mother church the last few nights. If you haven’t seen a Gregory Alan Isakov show, it’s a must.
Find tour dates here: https://gregoryalanisakov.com