Okkervil River

Back in September 2008, when Okkervil River lit up the stage at Madison's Barrymore Theatre, they were riding high on the success of their album *The Stage Names*, which had dropped just a year earlier in 2007. This album really put them on the indie map, brimming with lush arrangements and introspective lyrics that fused personal storytelling with broader existential themes. By the time of this live recording, the band was also gearing up to release *The Stand-Ins*, a companion piece to *The Stage Names*, later that same year. It’s fascinating how they were in such a creative flow, almost riding the wave of that intense songwriting energy that characterized their live performances. The song "Calling and Not Calling My Ex," featured in the live set, is a perfect example of their knack for blending melancholy with an upbeat rhythm, showcasing how effortlessly they engage their audience. It's moments like these that remind us why Okkervil River holds a special place in the indie rock scene.

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