Okkervil River

Ah, Okkervil River—what a gem of a band! When they played live at Schubas on May 9, 2004, they were right in the thick of their creative stride. Just a few months prior, in January of the same year, they released their third studio album, *Down the River of Golden Dreams*. This album really showcased their storytelling prowess, blending rich narratives with an indie rock sound that was starting to carve out a niche for them. Now, fast forward to that performance in Chicago: it was a moment where their raw energy met the intimate confines of one of the city’s beloved venues. There's something special about live recordings, isn’t there? They capture that electrifying connection between the band and the audience. “It Ends With A Fall,” which features in the recording, highlights not just the lyrical depth but also the dynamic instrumentation that Okkervil River was becoming known for. It’s fascinating to think that right then, they were on the cusp of broader recognition in the indie scene. That night at Schubas wasn’t just another gig—it was a celebration of their burgeoning artistry.

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