Okkervil River

At the time of the live recording at the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival in 2009, Okkervil River was riding high on the success of their album "The Stage Names," which had been released in 2007. This album marked a pivotal moment for the band, as it blended provocative storytelling with infectious melodies, showcasing Will Sheff's lyrical prowess and the band's diverse instrumentation. By the time they played in Golden Gate Park, the buzz around "The Stage Names" had solidified their reputation, drawing significant crowds to their performances. Fun fact: the festival itself has a charmingly laid-back vibe, which fits Okkervil River’s eclectic yet heartfelt style perfectly. Their lively rendition of “For Real” at this outdoor setting captures the essence of their live energy, even if the footage is a bit rough around the edges! It's a testament to the raw spirit of live music, don’t you think?

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