All Photographs by Jennifer Lake
When The Fray took the stage on Sunday, July 27 in Houston at Bayou Music Center, it felt like a collective catharsis. With a setlist of emotionally emphasized, piano driven rock that carried much of the mid-2000s, the Denver based band reminded the audience why their music is still celebrated nearly two decades later.
Opening with the hauntingly beautiful “She Is,” the crowd was immediately drawn in by Joe King’s signature raspy vocals and the songs deeply emotional lyrics. The Houston crowd took this opening track as a dedication to its attendees, with how deeply and in tune the crowd sang together. The setlist was a well balanced blend of fan favorites and unreleased songs, which proved the group’s ability to keep the audience on their toes.
Some memorable moments included a heartfelt rendition of “How to Save a Life,” during which the crowd took over most of the chorus. King was moved by the crowd, stepping back from the mic to let the moment breath. He cued the fans in with the mic, and even ventured through the crowd causing a light show, and a staple moment.
The Fray’s most well known song, “Over My Head (Cable Car),” was performed mid way through the setlist. This song takes us back to nostalgic parts of life, and even profound scenes in some of our favorite TV Shows, which felt like a surreal experience to grasp. This song was such a movement of emotions, through subtle and calming harmonies that will always draw a crowd through a wave of feelings. It was the perfect addition and performance to keep the energy up, and the crowd drawn.
The lighting and stage design were minimal but effective, creating an atmosphere that felt more like a shared experience than a performance. Throughout the show, each member of the band had the spotlight shone upon them through their instrumental solos. Between songs, King shared anecdotes about the band’s early days, songwriting struggles, and the personal stories behind some of their biggest hits. It added a layer of depth to their performance allowing intimacy to be shared throughout the crowd. Listening to the creation of art that we love, creates a greater admiration for its success.
Closing the night with “You Found Me” The Fray reminded everyone why their music lives on. It’s honest, heartfelt, and beautifully flawed in a way that mirrors real life emotions. The Fray’s sincerity is a refreshing addition to the list of shows at Bayou Music Center. This was a trip down memory lane and reminder that some songs never stop speaking to us.
SETLIST:
She Is
All At Once
Look After You
Fall Away
Little House
Dead Wrong
Trust Me
Heaven Forbid
Hundred
Vienna
Over My Head (Cable Car)
How To Save A Life
My Heart’s A Crowded Room
Hurricane
Heartbeat
Dreams
You Found Me
Encore:
Love Don’t Die
Never Say Never
I Saw The Light
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