Morgan Wade and Alex Dezen illuminated the stage at the Mershown Auditorium in Columbus, Ohio for fans young and old.
April 26, Wexner Center Mershon Auditorium in Columbus, Ohio, hosted a two and a half hour, all acoustic performance, bringing together country fans of all ages. They were by no means the primary audience but there were a great deal of elementary-aged girls and boys in attendance. It is likely that the acoustic, female vocalist performances made for a more inviting scene for parents to bring their children.
Performing first was the talented Alex Dezen, whose songwriting prowess and musical ingenuity added a layer of depth to the evening's performance. His sound was more indi-folk rather than country for his solo set, but in line with his band the Damnwells started in 2000. Dezen's introspective lyrics and poignant melodies resonated deeply with the audience, drawing them into a world of raw emotion and introspection. His ability to craft songs that speak to the human experience in such a profound way is remarkable.
The auditorium didn’t fill up until just before Morgan Wade’s performance which is a shame because Alex Dezen was entertaining with his soothing, vocals, strumming and real-to-life lyrics and witty banter.
Morgan Wade, with her commanding presence and raw vocal talent, captured the audience immediately. Her voice, a blend of grit and vulnerability, soared through the auditorium, filling every corner with its emotive power. From the haunting melodies of her ballads to the fiery intensity of her anthems, Wade's performance was authentic.
But it wasn't just her musical prowess that made the evening so special; it was also her genuine connection with the audience. Between songs, both Wade and Dezen took the time to engage with the crowd, sharing stories and anecdotes that added a personal touch to the performance. She was accompanied by a fella named Clint on stage. Despite praising him for being a good dad, she was able to make him the friendly butt of her jokes on stage for the majority of the night.
Her accent was paired with her plain-clothed, casual atmosphere. It was clear that they weren't just there to play music; they were there to connect with each and every person in the audience on a deeper level.
As the evening drew to a close, there was a sense of bittersweetness in the air. On one hand, people were reluctant to see the performance end, wanting to bask in the magic of Wade and Dezen's music for just a little while longer. But on the other hand, there was a feeling of gratitude for having been able to experience something so special.
By the close of the evening, Morgan Wade and Alex Dezen delivered a performance that touched the hearts and minds of everyone in attendance. From the moment they stepped onto the stage, it was evident that this evening would be nothing short of extraordinary. Their talent, passion, and authenticity were on full display, leaving a mark on those fortunate enough to witness it; a testament to the power of music to touch the soul and unite us all in shared humanity.