Okkervil River

By November 2007, Okkervil River was basking in the afterglow of their acclaimed album, *The Stage Names*, which had dropped earlier that year. This record marked a creative peak for the band, showcasing their distinct blend of folk-rock and poetic storytelling that resonated deeply with listeners. The live recording of “For Real” at Manchester Roadhouse captures that vibrant energy of the era. Interestingly, *The Stage Names* was part of a conceptual journey that explored themes of identity and performance, perfectly aligning with the atmosphere of a live setting where the energy is palpable, and every song becomes a shared experience between the band and the audience. This performance likely highlighted their ability to engage fans, pulling them into their introspective narratives. Being on tour at this moment must’ve felt electrifying, both for the band and the crowd, as they crafted a space where authenticity and artistry collided.

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