On a night that celebrated the past while looking ahead, alternative rock artists The Decemberists delivered an unforgettable performance at one of Chicago’s newest venues, The Salt Shed. For longtime fans, it was a reminder of the band’s storytelling magic; for newcomers, it offered a thrilling initiation into their universe of vibrant, off-kilter mythology.

Touring ahead of the June release of their ninth album, As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again, the setlist carried an exciting element of the unknown, even for those who’ve seen the Oregon band over the last two decades. The blend of classic favorites and unreleased tracks bridged past and present, mixing introspection and theatricality with a sense of wonder.

Only in the hands of Colin Meloy and Co. could a concert span such emotional range— from bittersweet to cathartic, mysterious to upbeat. The energy shifted as new songs emerged, revealing intricate facets of the band’s evolution. With lyrics reflecting a world in disarray, “Burial Ground” offers a space to lay down burdens and find connection. Its unexpectedly lively rhythm brings an energy that contrasts the theme, inviting fans to let go, even amidst heavier reflections. The nearly 20-minute “Joan in the Garden,” a jaw-dropping epic, created an entire world of its own, exploring resilience and rebirth as the band surged toward a powerful close.

Meloy’s wry, conspiratorial charm held the crowd in the palm of his hand, reminding everyone why they’ve held onto this band for so many years. Further sparking the night’s magic was The Salt Shed’s industrial architecture and intimate acoustics amplifying every word, note, and connection between the band and their audience.

The Decemberists left The Salt Shed in an extraordinary afterglow, a feeling that lingered well beyond the night’s end. It marked another major chapter in their legacy, further sealing their place as some of the most unique, celebrated, and illustrative storytellers of our time. Stream As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again, available now on YABB Records.