Field Report – Taking Alcatraz

Last Wednesday evening the guys of Field Report stopped by the Great Scott in Allston for a satisfying sneak preview of their upcoming debut album. The Milwaukee, WI natives have made a name for themselves through their stellar SXSW performances, and of course singer-songwriter Chris Porterfield’s association with Justin Vernon. Porterfield (Field Report is an anagram of Porterfield) was in Vernon’s early band, DeYarmond Edison, but quit the band when the guys moved to North Carolina. Fast forward to now, where members of the original band have formed (obviously) Bon Iver, Megafaun, and now Field Report.

The six piece, all in coordinating suit jackets, played tracks off their debut album due out September 11 on Partisan Records. Every one of their songs is a beautifully crafted ode to small-town life and missed opportunities. Their sound manages to combine an expansive and atmospheric sound with some folk twang thanks to an expertly played pedal steel guitar.

From the sounds we heard Wednesday night their debut album is one to look forward to. The Midwest, and Wisconsin in particular, has become quite the state for emerging new bands, especially those in the folk genre. And while Field Report certainly adds to the long list of well-respected artists from the state, there’s no doubt that their unique sound will garner praise, regardless of their previous ties to other Wisconsin bands.

While we wait for the their debut to come out in September, they’re touring through the rest of the summer. Catch ‘em while you can, because these guys are worth it. I wish I could say last Wednesday’s show at the Great Scott was a sold out show, but alas, it was not. Let me just say that next time Boston, we’ll do better because these guys are fantastic live.