Travis' Healy, Dunlop get cozy
Central Presbyterian Church, Austin, October 15, 2009
Reviewed by Adi Anand
Scottish band Travis craft undeniably catchy Brit-pop ditties, and over the course of six full-lengths in just over decade, the band has garnered a loyal legion of fans both sides of the pond. "Ode to J. Smith" was just released last year, but Fran Healy and Andy Dunlop from the band recently embarked on somewhat of a greatest hits tour, utilizing the time on the road to write material for a seventh album. This evening, long time Austin fans were treated to well over two hours of pretty songs, witty banter and touching anecdotes.
Although the Central Presbyterian Church in downtown Austin has hosted gigs previously, especially during the annual SXSW music festival, it still remains largely a novelty venue. The lack of a bar, the fact there was no opening act, and the obvious religious aura all made this a one of a kind concert.
Healy, constantly a source of clever comments, remarked, "if we play every song, we'll be here till Sunday service," as he kicked off the healthy set with Twenty, the first song he ever wrote.
Each song was preceded by a story and often with pictures of the events that led to that song's inception. The audience enthusiastically lapped up the all tales, and Healy held the attendees in the palm of his hands, painting pictures of Glasgow (City In The Rain), his family (My Eyes) and those special moments of late night inebriation (Flowers In The Window). Dunlop, who took over vocal duties on Ancient Train, added the requisite bite with chiming guitars throughout and also showcased his skills on the piano as needed.
The selections from "The Man Who," arguably their best album, were the highlights. Turn was marked by Healy's sincere vocals that soared through the church, making for an almost too perfect a setting for the uplifting anthem. Healy described Slide Show as an ode to songs, stating that "songs are like bookmarks" that bring back memories from your life. The accompanying slideshow of pictures from Travis' career only enhanced this moving number. Crowd pleaser Why Does It Always Rain On Me was delivered in typical fashion - impeccably melodious and bleeding sincerity.
Two beautiful songs, Writing To Reach and Driftwood, had some interesting yarns. The former was penned after a break-up, when Oasis' Wonderwall and The Connells' 74, 75 were dominating U.K. airwaves, and Healy obtained the latter's name from a Cheers episode, while diligently doing dishes one evening.
It was quite a treat for Travis fans, many of who could claim to have private relationships with the songs, to hear these personal stories. The second half of the set contained newer Travis favorites like Sing, Love Will Come Through, Closer and Chinese Blues, each prefaced by a backdrop, of course. After taking a few requests from the crowd, the band wrapped up the set with a brand new number As It Comes. Apparently, they have two songs in the bag already for the new record.
The truly intimate night ended with Healy and Dunlop manning the merchandise booth themselves, signing autographs and taking pictures, and satisfying the Austin faithful that had gathered eagerly for this cozy affair.
