Photos: Sarah Jaffe Live at the Bluebird, Denver

I don’t think I’ll ever forget the first time I saw Sarah Jaffe play in Denver. I was head-over-heels for her album, Suburban Nature, and was incredibly excited to hear her perform. Apparently the crowd at the Hi-Dive that night didn’t feel the same way. Poor Sarah struggled to play over the talking and bar noises to an unreceptive audience. Let me make it clear that I don’t think Sarah did anything wrong- the Hi-Dive on a Saturday night is just the wrong place to take the stage with an acoustic guitar.

Many months later, I’m still a huge fan. I’m still finding new places in Suburban Nature that make me come undone.

I am extremely happy to report that this show was a whole different story. Sarah took the stage with a carefully constructed show. Her first number was solo, with just Sarah on vocals and a recorded loop. She was soon joined by a full band – keyboards, drums, bass, and another guitar. The whole group effect was stunning. I feel like this is the way Sarah Jaffe’s music was written to be played. The sound was incredible; it filled up the whole room.

A lot of new songs were in the set this evening and I really can’t wait to hear them put down on a record. The audience was as intrigued to hear the new as they were to sing along with the old. I believe my favorite moment of the night came from Vulnerable, a quirky, complicated track with a lot of heart.

Sarah Jaffe – Vulnerable

I am so glad that I got to see Sarah Jaffe shine as a performer. Here’s to the next time, which will undoubtedly be bigger and better.