On March 23, Portland’s Revolution Hall hosted a night that spanned both ends of the live spectrum—intimate minimalism and grand, layered arrangements—each anchored by exceptional frontwomen.
Opening the evening, Morgan Nagler delivered an emotional 11-song set, featuring Nagler on guitar, a second guitarist, and a bassist. Both players brought great background vocals, offering a full sound, even without any percussion to speak of. Her delicate songwriting and unassuming stage presence makes it easy to see why she’s set to tour with Rilo Kiley later this year. Without flashy instrumentation, her songs stood on their own, drawing the audience in.
Then came Kim Deal, flipping the energy on its head with an eleven-piece band that got the greying crowd (myself included) revved up. With backup singers, horns, a violin, and a plethora of string instruments, Deal showcased the full force of her musical vision.
She played her debut LP, Nobody Loves You More, in its entirety, the album’s lush arrangements coming to life in ways that only a live setting can provide. From there, she moved into another eight tracks, including more of her solo catalog, treating the crowd to “Biker Gone” and dipping into Breeders territory before closing the night with a powerful rendition of “Do You Love Me Now?”
The crowd (again, myself included) was completely on board: cheering, swaying, and fully immersed in the experience. It’s rare to get a night where both artists shine in such different ways, but Deal and Nagler delivered. Portland loved it. I loved it. You’d love it.