By Thom Hooper
Lucy Dacus turned Asheville Yards into more than a simple concert experience on September 23rd, it was part indie rock show, part communal celebration. Touring behind her Forever Is a Feeling record, Dacus brought Chicago’s Slow Pulp with her as openers who showcased a memorable setlist incorporating elements of shoegaze and indie rock that set the tone for the remainder of the night.
Following Slow Pulp’s set, Dacus walked onstage to the loud roar of the crowd, playing a setlist that pulled from her discography beautifully, including fan favorites from Home Video and of course, Forever Is a Feeling. Her performance opened with “Hot & Heavy” going immediately into “Ankles” that lit up the crowd early while “Thumbs” and others made the open-air venue fall completely silent in a way where a packed outdoor venue suddenly feels like a living room.
The night concluded with a performance of the boygenius song “True Blue” before finishing out the night with “Night Shift” and the reaction from the crowd proved why the song is still her calling card, with so many voices screaming back each and every line. Dacus eloquently showcased that power doesn’t always mean turning everything up, sometimes it’s how sharp and lasting a quiet song can cut.
What made this Asheville concert unique wasn’t simply the music of the evening. In the middle of the set, Dacus, who’s legally ordained, officiated weddings for multiple couples onstage. Fans didn’t just watch a show, they witnessed life-changing commitments underscored by the soundtrack of Dacus’ career.
By the time the night closed out, it felt clear why her shows resonate beyond standard indie circles. She is not just playing songs but is crafting meaningful experiences that are made to be remembered, whether that’s through a devastating ballad, a cathartic singalong, or, in Asheville’s case, a handful of fans walking away legally married while others experienced an unforgettable night.
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