MUCH like Jessica Ennis-Hill, Augustines are going out at the top.
The New York three-piece band, who released their third album only in June, have devoted their latest tour to their fond farewell after announcing plans to call it a day, citing financial constraints.
Led by the effervescent guitarist Billy McCarthy whose heartfelt lyrics have become a staple part of the band’s anthemic sound, the trio’s blend of indie rock mashed with aspects of folk delights the eardrums.
Flanked by multi-instrumentalist Eric Sanderson and drummer Rob Allen, almost two hours of musical expertise ensued.
Playing songs from their first album Rise Ye Sunken Ships up to their recent release This Is Your Life, McCarthy’s vocals – ranging from the raspy to the richly beautiful – remained unfaltering throughout the performance.
In the spirit of a fitting farewell, the trio played rare songs and invited a member of a previous band, Pela, onto the stage to join.
The lack of a band of this calibre can only be a loss to the wider world of music.
Steven Prince
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