YOKE LORE BRINGS A SENTIMENTAL FEEL TO BROOKLYN
BY LIAM GILLIN (HE/HIM)
Let's talk about the Yoke Lore concert at the Music Hall of Williamsburg on August 24 in Brooklyn, NY – it was a truly sentimental experience. The stage setup had a mix of electric guitars, banjos, bass guitars, and even two drum sets scattered around casually. Nothing over-the-top, just a cozy vibe. The backdrop was an abstract tapestry with Yoke Lore’s name in huge letters, bathed in soft blue light. In contrast as lightbulbs were all over the stage showcasing red and orange hues throughout the performance. It gave off a warm and intimate atmosphere, setting the tone for what was to come.
What stood out was the nature of the event. The crowd was more like a group of friends hanging out. People were chatting, sharing stories about how they discovered his music, and some even got a chance to chat for his TikTok page. It was clear that Yoke Lore values connecting with his fans on a personal level and is using that engagement to amplify his music.
The music itself was all about emotions. When Yoke Lore shared his thoughts on using music to conquer the infinite, it struck a chord. The audience's response during "Chin Up" was more of a collective nod, an agreement on the sentiments expressed.
Yoke Lore's musical versatility shone through as he seamlessly switch between instruments like the acoustic guitar and the banjo. It was less about spectacle and more about heart. In three words, I'd describe the evening as wholesome, sentimental, and calming. The atmosphere was like a cozy hug, and his melodies tugged gently at your emotions. He also got to perform his newly released single “Holy Havoc,” from the EP of the same name, that was well recieved by the audience.
A touching moment came during the finale "Beige." The crowd sang along in unison “Don’t let me fall, don’t let me fall”, with simple lights flashing in sync. The night concluded with a soft eruption of applause, more of a shared understanding than a wild ovation.
The Music Hall of Williamsburg wasn't bursting at the seams, but it was filled with people who felt a personal connection to Yoke Lore's music. It was more of a reflective gathering than a raucous concert. The event captured the essence of how music can touch hearts and evoke shared feelings. Yoke Lore's first full-length album, "Toward A Never Ending New Beginning," is slated for release on September 22nd via Yell House Records. If you're into heartfelt tunes, this is definitely one to look forward to.