Last night brought two of the best indie acts in the biz together for one special night of music at Madison’s Barrymore Theatre. The Walkmen’s return to form with the fantastic You & Me has proven to be one of my favorite records of the year. Who can argue with the continued greatness of Okkervil River, whose latest, The Stand Ins, is also amongst the year’s best. Having both acts under one roof was an indie rock fan’s dream bill.

Ed Oliver was on hand to capture some photos for you to check out below. As usual, please leave your thoughts/reviews in the comments. Who ruled the night? Did Okkervil River outdo their last time through the city?

The Walkmen

Okkervil River

Previously: 5 Questions with Will Sheff of Okkervil River

Photos: Ed Oliver
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Myspace: The Walkmen
Myspace: Okkervil River
MP3: Okkervil River – “Our Life is Not a Movie or Maybe”

Find more MP3′s at The Hype Machine or buy stuff from Strictly Discs | eMusic

By Ed Oliver:

Although the show didn’t seem to be sold out, the people who were there definitely got their money’s worth. Greg Laswell sang some of his self-admittedly sad songs. And even when he told the audience that he was going to play happier songs, afterward he followed up noting that even he happier songs seemed sad. He even managed to extend this darkness when he performed a cover of “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun.” It was quite interesting to hear that song in such a slow and moody delivery way, to say the least.

After a short break, Ingrid came out and welcomed the crowd telling everyone she had just finished up at Monty’s Blue Plate Diner and that she loved the food. Especially the desserts.

She started out with “Breakable” and played through many (if not all) of the songs on her album. She also tossed in a few yet to be released songs – which she pointed out were floating around on YouTube. Each song was followed up with either audience interaction or an anecdote that served as a nice segue into the following.

Her rendition of “Over the Rainbow” was just fantastic.

Myspace: Greg Laswell
Myspace: Ingrid Michaelson

Find MP3′s at The Hype Machine or buy stuff from Strictly Discs | eMusic

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