The Lumineers and Kopecky Family Band @ Johnny Brenda’s

Text and images by Kirsten Stamn.

Last night, Johnny Brenda’s was home to a quasi-bluesgrass/orchestral folk takeover thanks to The Lumineers (above) and Kopecky Family Band.

It was the first time in Philly for both groups and there was no shortage of praise for both the city and the venue (the Kopeckys, who hail from Nashville, referred to the stage and surrounding balconies as a “snow globe”). For both of these young bands, the sold-out show was an enormous hit – fans chanted to their lyrics as they stomped their feet to the beat. And both groups got the chance to not only showcase their music, but also their values.

Family was a key component to both shows. Kopecky Family Band (images at right) made sure to reference their inspiration of coming home when introducing certain songs.

“We call ourselves a family band because we believe in what family is,” said co-lead singer Gabe. “And you are all a part of it.”

True to their word, after their set they greeted each and every fan near the stage and hung out with the audience until the very end of the night.

For The Lumineers, family is just as important. Lead singer Wesley Schultz made sure to dedicate a song to his family, who, he said, were the only ones who came out when they first started playing. Familial ties are important within the group too – cofounders Schultz and Jeremiah Fraites (below) bonded and began the band when Fraites’ older brother, Joshua, died of an overdose at 19-years old. He was Schultz’s best friend.  The music that came from this bond is passionate, soulful and forward-thinking.

After closing with their hit “Stubborn Love,” the Denver trio came out for an encore of four songs, one of which was played acoustically.

Once finished with their set, each band member hugged one another before mingling with the audience.

The music of the night was emotive, layered with vocals, cellos, mandolins, trombones, you name it.

Songs were inspirational and struck chords with audience members, many of whom looked as though they were about to cry during particularly resonant bits, before breaking out into a sort of hoe-down jig once the tempo picked up.

For each of these bands, if they keep doing what they’re doing – staying true to themselves and their missions while connecting with their listeners – they will be household names before you know it.