Some moments are so, so rare and so, so precious. Having the opportunity to be in the midst of one of these moments is even more special.
I had the opportunity to experience one of these moments at the Violents with Monica Martin show in Nashville. Only one other show had been played in New York City for the initial Awake and Pretty Much Sober album release, and another one didn't seem likely. Jeremy Larson, the mastermind behind the luscious Violents project (in which he writes and records the instrumentation, writes the lyrics, and then features a female vocalist) has been on the music scene for a few years, but live shows were incredibly rare. I've been a fan of Violents for about two years, and I had cherished the gorgeous EPs and now the first full-length album, but I was doubtful about ever seeing a live show. To my great surprise and excitement, a Violents show was announced for Nashville and I knew I had to go.
Fans of both Violents and Monica Martin crowded into The High Watt upstairs venue to share the rare occasion. The night was absolutely ethereal. Martin's haunting vocals backed by a string quartet and Larson's exquisite skills on the keys captivated everyone in the room. It felt like everyone was somewhat in a trance-like state, absorbed by the music. Beautiful projections played behind the artists as well, adding to the overall mood (I absolutely adored the blowing grass visuals). I was in awe. They were also "a little chatty" throughout the show, engaging with the audience and showing a refreshingly humorous side. The show was lovely, and by the end it felt as if the audience had been taken on a journey or had eavesdropped on a story. I don't really know how to fully describe it, but it was a rare moment and you could feel it. I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to attend and shoot the show.
Who knows, perhaps this isn't the end of Violents live shows. I certainly hope not. But for now, I am still honored to have been able to attend and experience something so exquisite.
