When you see an old friend, even if you know they’ve changed, there’s always a hope that things will come back to the way they were. That’s why you can’t help but check in on them, or these days, see their facebook page. I was worried about seeing Travis since their recent albums weren’t nearly as consistent or appealing as their first few records.
But when the band came out, Fran and the boys seemed to realize the strength of their early material. Of the first 12 songs, six were absolute classics. “Sing,” “Pipe Dreams,” and “Driftwood” brought me back to my Travis phase. Despite Fran’s quick description of band members time off to be fathers, I was back in college enjoying the jangly guitars and acoustic hooks. “Driftwood” in particular transported me directly back 10 years. The band sounded like they’d been transported in time.
Once I was warmed up by the older tunes, I found myself enjoying the newer tunes too. New classic “My Eyes” sat nicely next to the old classics. It’s tune is so earnest and some not cheesy. Fran Healy’s voice has an innocence to it.
The band had a true nature of camaraderie that pervaded the entire show. Their crowding around Fran’s microphone and helping him play the guitar showed the true “Good Feeling” of the band on “Flowers in the Window.” Even though the most recent albums aren’t as consistent, Travis’ live show is just as good. I left it feeling that I was contented.
Photos by Suzanne McMahon
About the author: Jeff is a teacher in the Boston area. When not buried correcting papers, Jeff can be found plucking various stringed instruments and listening to all types of americana music.