Bon Iver.

For a long time, I didn’t get “it.” Bon Iver is good, sure, but what is all the fuss about? People are swooning and practically worshiping this guy. “For Emma, Forever Ago” was just ok and as far as folk music goes, there are better artists out there. 

That was until I saw them live on Austin City Limits.

they opened with “Perth” and the organized chaos gave me chills while the bass sax rattled my soul. throughout the performance, Sean Carey (background vocals) hits notes that I am pretty sure would make God weep.  The entire band is seeping with talent, having fun yet taking their craft seriously.

Hearing the live version of Beth/Rest is a religious experience. Dramatic? Maybe. But this song stirs my soul, making me feel hopeful and closer to God than most of the mainstream “worship” music out there. If music moves the heart of God, he is grinning from ear to ear during this one.

This Austin City Limits performance makes me appreciate Bon Iver and their albums even more. Remember this post on inspiration? This performance does the same thing for me, beckoning me to be creative and reach my full potential. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OWEWJZnuQag

(Although a huge Bon Iver fan, I can laugh and appreciate this video. I can't get it to upload here directly, so just copy/paste it. It's hilarious.)