The Avett Brothers @ Theater Corona

The Avett Brothers are a three-piece folk-rock band from Concord, North Carolina. Walking into the venue, I noticed that the balcony seating was open, unlike the last time I was here for the Twin Shadow show. The venue was packed; I had no idea this band was such a hit. I later learned that their first EP was released in 2000 and that these were fans that had probably been enjoying their music for over a decade.

As soon as the music started everyone was silent. I was thrilled about this because I hate a noisy crowd. The people in the audience were acting as if they were sitting in their living room, enjoying the show so humbly, which helped the southern-hospitality feeling coming from the stage.

Hearing their recorded stuff prior to going to see their show I wasn't too impressed by what seemed so minimal compared to other folk bands, such as Fleet Foxes and Okkervil River. Seeing them live at Theatre Corona made their sound entirely more appealing, with a similar twist to Oklahoma's Cross Canadian Ragweed. But other times they could sound more like one of my least favorite bands, Mumford and Sons.

The two brothers, Scott and Seth Avett, played alongside their third piece Bob Crawford for many songs but the majority of the show was played with a full set. I found it aggravating at points that the drums were too much for the rest of the music being played, and especially washed out the bass and beautiful cello. Everything else sounded right on; they are definitely classically trained musicians. I could tell by their body movements, honky-tonk style, and bluegrass-type lyrics that these guys were definitely hometown, boy-next-door kind of folks, the kind that would bring you home to their momma's house for some comfort food.

I'd say the best and most soulful song of the night was "Paranoia In B Flat Major." It made the hairs on my arm stand up. On top of that the women in the audience were yelling so much you'd think the freaking Beatles were on stage live at The Ed Sullivan Show.

I wouldn't suggest purchasing their studio albums but definitely check out one of their three full-length live albums if you get a chance!

-Eileen English