Glen Hansard Shines at The Wiltern in Los Angeles

This memorable night at The Wiltern in Los Angeles began with Los Angeles’ own Trousdale, a pop-folk female trio that brought beautiful harmonies, and encouraging declarations of female empowerment. Their sound is reminiscent of HAIM, meets Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young with a hint of Milk Carton Kids. Their energy was intoxicating and they really warmed up and got comfortable as the night went on. It was a joy to see them return to the stage later for some covers (The Pogues) as well as for “Gold” (Interference) by Glen himself.

Trousdale (Andrew Marshall)
Glen Hansard (Andrew Marshall)

Glen Hansard took the stage accompanied by Rob Bochnik and Joe Doyle, both of the Frames, as well as violinist Gareth Quinn Redmond, pianist Ruth O’Mahoney-Ruth, and drummer Tim Neuhaus. The night in one word: unpredictable, in the best way possible. Kicking off the night with “Sure As The Rain,” the audience soaked up every moment from the second everyone walked on stage. The way that this group brings you from heart-wrenching acapellas to shanties to heavier rock tracks, is sudden yet so exciting. “Don’t Settle,” “This Gift,” and “Bird of Sorrow” were some of the show’s highlights. Equally exciting were the guest appearances of James Fearnley, the accordionist of The Pogues, Jonny Pickett on Banjo — they played phenomenal covers of The Pogues’ “A Pair of Brown Eyes” and “Bottle of Smoke.” Glen also brought out the amazing Olivia Vedder to perform vocals on “My Father’s Daughter.” The Grafton Street busker-turned-Oscar-winner energetically performed his songs and covers to perfection, punctuated by his hilarious banter and stories; all making for a night to never forget.

GALLERY: Glen Hansard & Trousdale at The Wiltern in Los Angeles — October 1, 2024