Jeremy's Indie Music: The Civil Wars, Manchester Academy 2, 16th March 2012 10/10

Now, you could argue that this review is superfluous since I've already written about The Civil Wars' shows. They are one of the very finest live music experiences around right now, so I make no apologies for drawing your attention to them again. This really was my most captivating and moving concert so far this year and you mustn't miss them next time they come to your town. I'm such a fan I'd already bought a ticket for their next show here (in October) before his one; that'll be in a much larger venue, the price (or reward) of their success. Their appeal is far wider than just folk or country music aficionados, and they are for anyone open to being moved.

The night started with Matthew and the Atlas, an indie folk group from Aldershot UK, who are signed to Communion Music. Here, they performed a stripped down set compared to their previous work, with just banjo and violin to accompany lead singer and acoustic guitarist Matt Hegarty. He has a distinctive, gravelly voice and they performed largely soft country ballads, with the odd foot stomping barnstormer. Joy Williams of The Civil Wars said later that they tried to find support bands who don't suck, and Matthew and the Atlas were glorious, totally committed in delivering their melodic, heart warming folk. Matt isn't outgoing on stage, instead you could see the tranquility in his expression as he got lost in the music. They've supported Mumford and Sons previously, but their music is more subtle and gentle.

The moment Joy and JP came on stage in their trademark black suit and dress, and started to sing, time stopped, and there was a palpable tension in the air. A Twitter follower said he'd 'never seen an audience so quiet with sheer amazement'. Their first album, Barton Hollow, was released independently in February 2011, and was included on many best albums of 2011 lists, including my own. Whether or not have you it already, you should also go to their web site and download their free 'Live at Eddie's Attic' album. If you're the United States, you can also download a new Live at Sundance EP from Google Music. Their reputation has spread through the generosity of releasing these free recordings, word of mouth, and tireless touring. They are truly hard working musicians and they're well on the way to realise the desire Joy articulated at this show of becoming an international group.

To appreciate their real magic though, you just have to see them live. They are such fun to watch due to the exquisite chemistry between them. Joy had a beaming smile throughout the set, whilst JP compliments her outgoing Californian personality with his dry Southern humour. They famously met during a songwriting session in Nashville, Tennessee in 2008 when this unlikely pairing created sparks off each other. Their intertwining vocal harmonies are bewitching, and their singing and playing was pitch perfect throughout, yet utterly natural and unforced. I could watch Joy's dancing and hand movements all day long, and it was heartbreaking when the set ended just over an hour after it began.

Joy said explained her bump 'isn't from my dinner', dedicating a song to her unborn baby and husband (who's not JP, contrary to the assumptions of many). She described how she could feel it moving during different songs each night. They included covers: Portishead's Sour Times and as an encore Billy Jean; these were exquisite, but I hope that they manage to take time out of their busy touring schedule to write some new songs of their own. Much of their music has a sombre nature, yet they are delivered with such love. As with many of the greatest music, the experience is exceptionally spiritual, and I walked out of the venue feeling more at ease and content with the world.

Set List