Motherfolk brought a heartwarming night to Cincinnati’s historic concert venue, Bogart’s, for their tenth annual “A Very Motherfolk Xmas” hometown holiday show. They delivered a memorable night of music, celebration, and community that showcased not only their own talents but also those of their impressive openers, In The Pines and Bendigo Fletcher.
The evening began with a set from In The Pines, a Cincinnati-based band that’s been carving out a name for themselves in the indie rock scene. Their intricate guitar work created an energy in the music hall that grounded the audience and prepared them for the night ahead. With tracks that balanced moody atmospherics and honest lyrics, In The Pines set themselves up as a local act to keep an eye on.
Next up was Bendigo Fletcher, hailing from Louisville, Kentucky. The band brought more of a folk rock sound to the night, creating a soulful energy onstage. Equipped with a guitar and a harmonica, lead singer Ryan Anderson captivated the audience with his multi-instrument talent. Their set was a perfect segue into the night’s main act.
By the time Motherfolk took the stage, the room was buzzing. Bogart’s, with its storied walls and intimate yet lively ambiance, proved the perfect venue for such a special event. When the curtains were pulled back to reveal a hand-made mirrored disco moon hanging above a string light and tinsel-adorned stage and vintage televisions displaying visuals created by frontman Nathan Dickerson, the crowd erupted into a huge cheer. The band opened their set with fan favorite “all i need” instantly drawing the audience into their world of “serious songs for not-so-serious people.” It was clear from the outset that this wasn’t just another show for Motherfolk; it was a celebration of their roots and a thank you to the city that has supported them for a decade.
The setlist spanned their discography, opening with newer material including their most recent single, “Hotel,” throwing it back to 2014 with a section of the set dedicated to their first album, then returning to more recent releases. Fans sang along passionately to both old and new songs, demonstrating just how powerful Motherfolk’s lyricism is. Given that this is the tenth year of the holiday show, the audience was treated to a few surprises, such as a performance of “F.U.S.” (Fucked Up Summer), a song that the crowd always requests despite the thematic antagonism for a holiday show, as well as guest performances of “Big Bad” and “Julian” from Dickerson’s other musical endeavor, MEOWBOYS. And in true Motherfolk-fashion, the night ended with a 2000s pop cover, with this year’s selection being “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield.
After the band left the stage, Chappell Roan’s “HOT TO GO!” came on over the speakers, and Bogart’s turned into a small dance party. The tenth annual “A Very Motherfolk Xmas” succeeded in more than just entertaining; it had fostered a sense of belonging and celebration. For Motherfolk, this holiday show wasn’t just a milestone—it was a testament to their enduring love for their hometown and the community that’s grown with them.
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