The Lone Bellow: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert

After hearing The Lone Bellow’s self-titled debut, I couldn’t wait to play it for friends and on All Songs Considered — I knew people would love it. Still, honestly, I was unprepared for the stunning power of the band’s live show. When you see this Tiny Desk Concert, I’m sure you’ll experience the same sensation I did. The Lone Bellow features three brilliant players, with Zach Williams singing every word as if it’s the last time he’ll ever get the chance. He’s got a bit of Springsteen in him; it’s the sort of delivery I was sure couldn’t get more intense, until it does. Kanene Pipkin and Brian Elmquist aren’t just supporting players; they’re vital. Their voices harmonize with Williams’, sometimes making vocal power chords and at other times supplying delicate textures. Pipkin’s mandolin and Elmquist’s guitar create melodies and rhythms that seem a lot bigger than 14 unamplified strings normally make. Williams began writing songs not too many years back while living in Georgia, inspired by tragedy — a ridin