Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit – May 3rd – Red Rocks Amphitheater

Photo by Tim Dwenger

On the evening of May 3rd 2023, Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado played host to a breathtaking performance by Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit. The band is on tour to support the upcoming release of their new album Weathervanes, and they opened the show with a fiery take on “24 Frames” that set the tone for the evening. The crowd was immediately captivated by Isbell’s raw energy and the band’s tight instrumentation, which proved to be a constant throughout the night.

A special moment arrived when the familiar chords of the Isbell penned, Drive-By Truckers’ classic, “Outfit” reverberated through the venue, prompting an eruption of cheers. Isbell and the 400 Unit’s interpretation of the song was a testament to their reverence for Southern Rock roots and the profound impact of their leader’s youth. Isbell then introduced “Dreamsicle,” a song that he revealed the story behind during the recently released HBO documentary Running to Stand Still. The track, a poignant reflection on childhood, resonated deeply with the audience and set the stage for an emotional and reflective evening.

Over the course of the evening, the band showcased a trio of singles from their forthcoming album, including the pairing of “Death Wish” and “Middle of the Morning,” midway through the set. Each song was executed with precision and intensity, leaving the crowd craving more. Other highlights of the night included as well as a stretched out version of “Last of My Kind” which showcased the 400 Unit’s impeccable musicianship. The band also performed the early Isbell gem “Alabama Pines,” which put Isbell’s masterful storytelling, captivating the audience and reminding them of the artist’s remarkable growth and evolution.

As the night progressed, Isbell and the band proved that they were not afraid to experiment and push their musical boundaries. Guitarist Sadler Vanden took center stage for a cover of Drivin’ n’ Cryin’s “Honeysuckle Blue,” which was a refreshing change of pace and showcased the band’s versatility. The band’s perennial show closer, “Cover Me Up,” started as a tender duet between Isbell and his wife, Amanda Shires, who had been accompanying the band on the fiddle throughout the night. Their shared chemistry and musical connection were palpable, leaving the audience in awe.

The two-song encore started with the new acoustic masterpiece “Cast Iron Skillet,” which had the crowd mesmerized. The band then dove headlong into a blistering version of the Rolling Stones’ “Can’t You Hear Me Knocking,” which left the crowd breathless and wanting more. The weather was perfect, and despite some ongoing construction at the venue, the evening was truly magical.

Overall, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit delivered an exceptional performance that showcased their exceptional musicianship, emotional depth, and ability to connect with their audience. The band’s upcoming album Weathervanes is sure to be a hit, and after seeing them live, it’s clear that Isbell and his band are at the top of their game.