30 Apr Wilco at the Wheel

Wednesday evening was one of the most perfect opening days for SunFest I can recall. The weather gods directed all rain to the north and south of West Palm Beach. Light gray skies and a salty breeze kept attendees cool and protected from the sun.

I was filled with an immense pride for my hometown as I became reacquainted with Flagler Drive. Opening acts Yardji and Lizzo were impressive on the Ford Stage– It’s no easy feat kicking off a festival! The Shadowboxers were spectacular at Tire Kingdom stage, with endearing, synchronized dance moves and powerful harmonies. It was paradise.

At 8:00 p.m. sharp, Wilco wandered onto the Tire Kingdom stage before a group of relaxed and loyal fans. In fact, I would not be surprised if I was the only attendee seeing the Chicago-grown band for the very first time.

Tweedy and his five fellow musicians opened with “Handshake Drugs” off of their fifth studio album, “A Ghost is Born.” Bathed under teal and purple lights, the group delivered their perfected alternative-country twang to fans.

I possess a fascination for all bands and how they deliver a live performance. Watching Wilco, I was intrigued by the group’s quiet composure. Twenty years, eight studio albums, multiple collaborations, and countless shows have filled this band with wisdom. Wilco strikes me as a band that would never get anxious before a show, big or small. These musicians were born to strum, pick, and perform. They are as much at ease on stage as we are at home in our living rooms. As a result, their ever evolving sound is beloved by their fans, who will happily follow them anywhere.

I was taken with the song “Secret of the Sea,” nestled in the front of their set. I was happy to recognize “Art of Almost,” “Jesus, Etc.” and “California Stars.” Wilco also performed Uncle Tupelo’s “New Madrid,” to the delight of the crowd.

Toward the “end” of their set, founder Jeff Tweedy remarked, “We don’t get down here very much, no. We’re trying to make the most of it.”

There are few truer statements than “It’s easier to ask forgiveness than it is to get permission.” Wilco definitely wanted to make the most of their SunFest performance and played long past the end of their set time. The group closed with “Monday,” “Outta Mind Outta Sight,” and an exceptionally loud, shoulder-shaking version of “I’m a Wheel.”