Brandi Carlile’s recent performance at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, set against the breathtaking Colorado landscape, was more than just a concert; it was an experience. This special Friday night show, featuring the acclaimed Colorado Symphony, offered fans a unique and intimate look into Carlile’s celebrated career and personal journey. For those seeking an unforgettable live music event, a Brandi Carlile Red Rocks show stands as a pinnacle, blending raw emotion with orchestral grandeur.
This wasn’t Carlile’s first time gracing the Red Rocks stage, nor her first collaboration with a symphony. However, this particular evening felt different, elevated. Stripped of her usual band setup, Carlile stood center stage with only the expansive Colorado Symphony, led by conductor Jason Weinberger, as her backdrop. This bold move put her artistry, her voice, and her stories in the spotlight like never before. It was, in many ways, a coming-of-age performance at a venue that itself signifies a milestone for artists.
Taking the stage alone after the orchestra’s introduction, Carlile openly shared her nerves, a vulnerability that immediately endeared her to the captivated audience. What followed was a seamless 90-minute journey through her discography, from early tracks like “Follow,” from her self-titled debut album, to the powerful “Broken Horses” from her more recent In These Silent Days. This wasn’t simply a setlist of hits; it was a curated narrative of Brandi Carlile’s evolution as an artist and a woman. The stripped-down arrangement highlighted the sheer force of her vocals, reminding everyone that at the heart of her artistry lies an unmatched and deeply resonant voice. During “Broken Horses,” even without her band, Carlile delivered a rambunctious and soul-stirring rendition that showcased the raw power she possesses.
Beyond the music, the evening was punctuated by Carlile’s candid storytelling. She shared personal anecdotes, delving into the complexities of her life and the inspirations behind her songs. She spoke of the bittersweet nature of songwriting, how revisiting past experiences, even painful ones, is inherent in the craft. Her reflections on her relationship with her alcoholic father resonated deeply, offering a poignant message about healing and forgiveness: “the person that hurts you isn’t the person that heals.” These moments of vulnerability and connection forged a powerful bond with the Red Rocks crowd, transforming the concert into an intimate dialogue.
Adding to the richness of the musical tapestry, pianist and arranger Dave Mackay joined Carlile for several songs, including a breathtaking cover of Joni Mitchell’s “A Case of You.” Mackay’s delicate piano accompaniment provided a perfect counterpoint to Carlile’s emotive vocals, creating moments of pure musical magic. The Hanseroth Twins, who had opened the show, later returned to the stage, first joining Carlile for a rendition of “Turpentine” and then performing their own song, “Remember Me,” from their album Vera. This collaborative spirit underscored the sense of community and shared artistry that permeated the evening.
A truly special moment arrived when Carlile’s wife, Catherine Shepherd, graced the stage. Their duet on “You and Me on the Rock,” a defiant and heartfelt love song, was a highlight, as was their crowd-pleasing cover of Indigo Girls’ “Closer to Fine.” These performances were not just musically beautiful but also deeply personal, celebrating love and partnership in a public and powerful way.
The concert reached an emotional crescendo with “The Joke.” As the opening chords rang out, the Red Rocks audience, in a now-iconic tradition, illuminated the amphitheater with a rainbow of colored phone lights, stretching up the venue’s 70 rows. This visual spectacle perfectly complemented the song’s message of triumph over adversity and the celebration of inclusivity. It was a powerful reminder, much like Arthur Ashe’s eventual advocacy, that embracing one’s story and sharing it can create profound change and understanding. Brandi Carlile’s performance at Red Rocks served as a vibrant testament to the beauty and strength found in diverse experiences and the unifying power of music.
To experience Brandi Carlile live, check out her tour dates: https://www.brandicarlile.com/tour
Discover more music from The Hanseroth Twins and their album Vera: https://www.thehanserothtwins.com/
Read our previous review of Brandi Carlile at The Anthem: Show Review: Brandi Carlile at the Anthem
