Words by Corinne Casella / Photos by Jeremy Gordon
The smoke cleared, the music played and the New York City skyline was alive once again. After days of
being warned to stay inside, New York music fans showed their endless resiliency, with a night of roots-
driven dancing on The Rooftop at Pier 17. On June 9, powerhouse trio, The Wood Brothers, defied the
weather gods and brought a packed rooftop to its feet, in support of their eighth studio album, Heart Is
The Hero.
Openers Shovels and Rope combined their on-stage chemistry with a unique mix of Americana-folk to
keep the audience dancing even through the rain. The wife/husband duo of Cary Ann Hearst and
Michael Trent played their hearts out under spotty skies to an appreciative audience. “Makes it all the
sweeter to be here,” stated Hearst as the multi-instrumentalists delivered flawless versions of standouts
that included ‘Birmingham,’ ‘The Devil Is All Around,’ and ‘The Wire.’ Water and wind in their hair,
swaying, the audience emerged cleansed and smiling.
Silhouetted by the majestic Brooklyn Bridge, The Wood Brothers took the stage for a set that was
energetic, layered and contagious. “Aren’t we all lucky to be here,” stated Oliver Wood. The theme of
the night truly, as the trio, consisting of brothers Oliver and Chris Wood and Jano Rix emphasized their
diverse blend of well-executed music and compassionate lyrics.
The band played several songs off their new album, Heart Is The Hero, released April of this year. The
acoustic-driven album includes several notable tracks including title song ‘Heart is the Hero,’ ‘Far From
Alone,’ and ‘Line Those Pockets.’ Other noteworthy highlights included older favorite, ‘Little Bit Sweet,’
and an epic jam that transitioned from ‘Happiness Jones,’ into a cover of the Charles Wright classic
‘Express Yourself.’
After a short break, the trio returned to the stage for an exhilarating three song encore. Requesting a
silent audience, they launched into a soulful version of their staple ‘The Muse.’ Next, Shovels and Rope
were invited back on stage for a stirring rendition of Tom Petty’s ‘Yer So Bad,’ and finishing the night
with an uplifting ‘One More Day.’ Leaving the crowd grateful after a night of recovery and celebration.
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TheWaster.com | NYC
6.11.23
