Hayden
6/28/8
Schubas Tavern in Chicago
When I think of Hayden, I get an immediately nostalgic feeling of hazy summers between university years. It was a different time and I was in a different place (only a couple of hours where Hayden resides in Toronto, actually) and in some ways I feel younger just listening to the songs. It’s strange how certain music can transport you back. Subjectivity aside, Hayden is one of those poppy folk musicians that can consistently write interesting songs. Even when they are lackadaisical, there is enough in them to keep you engaged as a listener. That’s a talent in and of itself and something he’s been doing since those early days I began listening, all the way back to 1998’s The Closer I Get.
Though Schubas is probably the best place you’ll ever hope to see Hayden, he made the stage even more special with decor seemingly fitting for a Canadian cabin nestled snugly in the woods. On the floor was a red living room rug and blanketing the keyboard was a blanket with a deer prominently displayed in the pattern. Along the back wall lay the visual scene to match. Not too many bands made that special effort these days and that set a certain tone…one of comfort you might feel if you actually were in Hayden’s living room for example.
On stage, Hayden was just as sincere as his setup might suggest. Though he had other band members adeptly backing him up with keyboard drums and bass, it was difficult to remember anyone was up there except Hayden. He showed a little of his personality when asked about his vest. (He said it was a reference to There Will Be Blood, which happens to be my favorite film of 2008.) Mainly, he kept quiet between songs, though, in an understated sort of subtleness that drew the audience’s attention to his rich melodies and talented musicianship between playing the guitar, harmonica, and keyboard. The setlist was also incredibly strong with highlights being “Home by Saturday,” “The Hazards of Sitting Beneath Palm Trees,” “Dynamite Walls” and “Worthy of Your Esteem.” Though Hayden is really Canada’s darling, it was nice for Chicago to have him all to ourselves, even if it was just for one night.