The University of Vermont's Independent Voice Since 1883

The Vermont Cynic

The University of Vermont's Independent Voice Since 1883

The Vermont Cynic

The University of Vermont's Independent Voice Since 1883

The Vermont Cynic

Folk artist sells out at Signal Kitchen

On a rainy Wednesday night, Vermont’s own folk singer and songwriter played a sold-out show at Signal Kitchen.

Anais Mitchell is reminiscent of a modern-day Joni Mitchell, with a softer voice that’s innocent like a child’s, but doesn’t escape the tone of someone who has seen a hardship or two.

The tranquil atmosphere of the night reflected the mood of the show. The crowd was casual yet engaged, and made up of dedicated fans.

The show was sold out, but there were no over-enthusiastic fans obnoxiously singing along. Everyone was connected by their mutual admiration and respect for Mitchell.

 Vermont folk musician Anais Mitchell plays Signal Kitchen Dec. 5. Mitchell is currently on tour for her seventh album, “Xoa.”
[/media-credit] Vermont folk musician Anais Mitchell plays Signal Kitchen Dec. 5. Mitchell is currently on tour for her seventh album, “Xoa.”

Mitchell’s transitions were as clever and sincere as her lyrics, never feeling forced or fake. She took requests from the crowd and invited people to sing on stage with her, adding to the show’s uniqueness.

“She connected with the crowd very well,” first-year Caroline Sheehan said. “I knew I loved her music but I didn’t realize how funny she is.”

She made the crowd feel comfortable, and was clearly happy to be back in her home state. Throughout the show, Mitchell said she felt as though she knew everyone in the crowd.

The setlist featured songs that she hasn’t recorded yet, as well as songs from her newest album, “Xoa.” It was one of those rare shows where it didn’t mat- ter if you recognized most of the songs or not, because each new lyric gave you shivers.

It was a powerful night. You couldn’t help but be over whelmed with sentiment.

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Folk artist sells out at Signal Kitchen