In a word. Fun. In two more words. Extreme fun. But Father John Misty at the Oxford Art Factory on Friday night was so much more than that. It was a blissed out hour of rich and warm music. I think that's what get me most about the newly created Josh Tillman fronted Father John Misty. Their songs are so rich with feeling and generosity, so full of pathos and humour. Throw in an incredibly charismatic and talented frontman and it's a near unbeatable combination.

When Josh Tillman left Fleet Foxes earlier this year I felt a little sad. Sure Robin Pecknold was the central driving force, but Tillman was a major factor. His drumming, sense of humour and immaculate voice will surely be lost. But another chapter opened in his life and what a great opening paragraph it has been. I also felt a little sad that Tillman has seemingly been rejecting his previous solo career, describing it as dour and not really him. I for one loved his solo work and will always treasure him. But on the other hand his rebirth as the elastic, vibrant Laurel Canyon inspired frontman of Father John Misty is quite triumphant and completely joyous. As the curtain opened and the opening strains of "Funtimes in Babylon" flowed out it set off an hour of complete fun and happiness. Tillman is quite the frontman. Confident but not cocky. Sexual but not sexy. Funny but engaging and true. He is lithe and almost balletic too. Oh and his voice. It is pure and sure. Deep and rich. His band aren't half bad either, ably playing their part with expert timing and great harmonies. Every song hit the mark, but particular standouts were "Nancy From Now On" and "This Is Sally Hatchet" with its wigged out ending. "Everyman Needs a Companion" slayed us all and "Now I'm Learning to Love the War" gets better with each and every listen. Naturally they closed with the epically great "Hollywood Forever Cemetery Sings". A song this great and a show this good meant one thing. A major talent has arrived.  


Set List
Funtimes in Bablyon
Only Son of the Ladiesman
Nancy From Now On
I'm Writing a Novel
Misty's Nightmares 1 & 2
This Is Sally Hatchet
Well, You Can Do It Without Me
Now I'm Learning to Love the War
Everyman Needs a Companion
Hollywood Forever Cemetery Sings

Tee Pees 1-12