OFM Gallery: Adrianne Lenker at Mission Ballroom

OFM had the chance to see queer musician, Adrianne Lenker, with support from her partner, Staci Foster at Mission Ballroom on 6/26/24 following the release of her March album titled Bright Future. Lenker is also a member of indie folk band Big Thief alongside long-time musical accomplice Buck Meek. Her first solo album, Hours Were the Birds, was released in 2014 followed by b-sides (2014), a-sides (2014), abysskiss (2018), instrumentals, (2020), and songs (2020).

It was an emotional night at Mission Ballroom as Lenker enchanted the crowd with her deeply personal yet relatable lyrics. Her comforting voice and welcoming presence created a memorable night for the Denver music scene. She kicked off the show with “Real House” from Bright Future, and played both newer and older songs such as “Sadness As A Gift”, “Free Treasure”, “Anything”, and “Indiana.” On top of her solo releases, she also played a couple of Big Thief hits like “Born For Loving You”, “Simulation Swarm”, and “Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe in You.”

As the show came to an end, the entire venue lit up with flashlights as Lenker said that the audience were the stars in her galaxy. Her genuine connection with the crowd could be felt throughout the entire venue as her lyrics entranced fans from across Colorado.