Avi Kaplan at The Troubadour

Avi Kaplan at The Troubadour

Avi Kaplan (live show review from the album Floating on a Dream available on Fantasy Records)
June 9, 2022 - The Troubadour, West Hollywood
Avi Kaplan’s last show in an impressive 30 date European and US tour took place at West Hollywood’s legendary venue, The Troubadour on June 9, 2022. Well attended by many adoring fans the crowd was equally as many comped ticket onlookers as general admission, with the industry ticket holders were treated to a meet and greet with the singer as well hearing sound check.
The show opener was Andrea von Kampen, her mesmerizing Folk voice reminiscent of Joni Mitchell. She was really a great opening act. There is a certain magic that comes with performances at the Troubadour and was most likely the perfect venue to wrap his Floating on a Dream tour.
Avi Kaplan took the stage to thunderous applause. Picking up his guitar he began to weave the tale of “Floating on a Dream”, the title track to his recent release, before being joined by drums and the rest of the band. To be honest, I was not prepared for the journey ahead. The revelation of his singer/songwriter side was a pleasant surprise. I was well aware of his vocal ‘chops from his time in acapella group Pentatonix, familiar with both his Basso Profundo vocals and Beat Box abilities. The Floating on a Dream album signals a departure from the past. Avi Kaplan has managed to capture his own unique sound and style. What I heard was an interesting combination of Folk, Country, Blues and Psychedelic Roots sounds, which fit perfectly with the theme of Floating on a Dream. Don’t let the title fool you, although it definitely had a dream like quality. it was far from sleepy. He held everyone’s attention through the whole set.
A few things that stand out with Kaplan’s style are, deep yet simple lyrics, superior vocal prowess, and his ability to connect with his audience. Avi’s gratitude to the crowd was genuine and heartfelt and in return their love for him was very evident.
A few songs like “Aberdeen” demonstrated his notable whistling ability creating the feel of a 60’s Clint Eastwood western movie. In fact, I’d be shocked if at least one of his songs isn’t picked up for film or television. The title song “Floating on a Dream” was dedicated to his family (who were in attendance). The set was a bit more than an hour and not a moment was fillers. Over all, I would say his use of strong vocals, clever use of clapping and whistling and well placed use of pedal steel, drums and keyboard lent to the creation of ‘western dreamscape’  that was very appealing. The whole experience was one that if you arrived and were not fan you certainly were by the time you left.  Floating on a Dream, produced by Shooter Jennings, is a must listen album!
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