Kurt Vile

In September 2011, when Kurt Vile and The Violators performed live at KEXP, they were riding the wave of significant recognition in the indie rock scene following the release of his third studio album, "Smoke Ring for My Halo." Released earlier that year, the album showcased Vile's distinct blend of lo-fi rock and introspective lyricism, contributing to his growing reputation as a solo artist distinct from his earlier work with The War on Drugs. The performance included standout tracks such as "On Tour," which reflects Vile's themes of travel and self-reflection prevalent in his songwriting. Notably, "Smoke Ring for My Halo" received critical acclaim and was highlighted in numerous year-end lists, solidifying Vile's position in the contemporary music landscape. The KEXP session not only allowed him to connect with a live audience but also captured the essence of his evolving sound and artistic identity during this pivotal phase of his career.

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