Bright Eyes

By May 2017, Bright Eyes had gone through quite a journey, and that performance at ACL Live is a real testament to it. This was around the time Conor Oberst, the band's frontman, was actively reconnecting with fans after a hiatus. Interestingly, just prior to this, Bright Eyes hadn't released new music since “The People’s Key” in 2011, so fans were hungry for something fresh. Oberst had focused on solo work and collaborations, keeping the music scene buzzing, but that night in Austin felt like a homecoming. His performance of “Poison Oak” is steeped in nostalgia, exploring themes of loneliness—something every listener can relate to at some point. The video description, "The sound of loneliness makes us happier," captures that bittersweet emotion perfectly. So, while the band may have been on a break, that live show showcased not just Oberst’s songwriting depth but also the enduring legacy of Bright Eyes in the indie music world. What a moment to be a part of!

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