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CJSF volunteer, Isaac Louie, attended the incomparable Lusinda Williams at the Vogue theatre...

On November 12, 2008, Lucinda Williams enchanted a mesmerised Vancouver audience at the Vogue Theatre. Hardly her first time in town, I can safely assume (and hope), this will be hardly her last.

In a world that all too often feels like it is unravelling, Lucinda Williams was just that: with a stage-comfortable, synergistic band behind her and an enamoured, inviting audience before her, Lucinda Williams opened her heart to fill the theatre.

The true appreciation of Williams’s night at the Vogue was in the equal participation of fan and artist. Unlike the high energy of GM place concerts, the Vogue allowed for a natural spontaneity as a celebration of human spirit and its capacity for creation, not simply construction. When Williams and band walked back onto stage for a five song encore, it was out of appreciation and respect, but most of all it was out of genuine enthusiasm. With warm reception, the audience welcomed an ambitious rap song experiment. A true staple of Vancouver culture, this was pleasantly unforgettable.

As a university student, one challenge of attending a Wednesday night show is to escape the thoughts of daily duties, and to be fully present in the events. With finals around the corner, my anxieties were silenced by Lucinda Williams’s stunning voice as she progressed with well-loved hits like “Tears of Joy” and “Jailhouse Tears.” With such a wide selection of music and song, fans left the Vogue satisfied and singing heartily into the night. A standing ovation for a stunning oration.