Bright Eyes

In November 2002, when Bright Eyes performed at the famed Paradiso in Amsterdam, the band was riding high on the waves of their critically acclaimed album *Lifted or The Story Is in the Soil, Keep Your Ear to the Ground*, which had released just a few months prior, in August. This album was a significant turning point for the band, showcasing Conor Oberst’s lyrical prowess and penchant for storytelling, blending folk, rock, and indie influences seamlessly. Interestingly, that Amsterdam show was part of a mini festival called Tombola, which featured multiple artists associated with the distributor Konkurrent, emphasizing not just Oberst’s rising status but also the vibrant indie music scene of the early 2000s. The concert captures a raw and emotional performance, offering a glimpse into Bright Eyes at a pivotal moment—just before they achieved widespread recognition and embraced even more experimental sounds in their next works. What a time to be a fan!

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