On a Tuesday night in Nashville, Brooklyn-based indie-folk rockers Cut Worms transformed the Basement East into a warmly lit home, evoking a slightly faded memory. Led by Cleveland-born songwriter Max Clarke, the band brought their signature sound to the stage: a perfect blend of soft rock, country, folk, and indie influences. Contrasting the usual pomposity of many modern live shows, Cut Worms showcased their quiet confidence that instantly drew the crowd in. Tailing off the release of their most recent album, Transmitter, the group played a mix of familiar favorites and new releases, even including unreleased tracks on the setlist. From their first song, the tone of the night was set. The steady guitar riffs and Clarke’s distinct voice blanketed the venue with an almost timeless sound and had the audience entranced.
The band displayed their charm through Clarke’s understated stage presence and dry humor, while the band played with a restrained precision that was intoxicating. The audience consisted of long-time, die-hard fans and casual listeners. By the end of the set, one could tell that the casual listeners had transitioned into something more. The mellow, reflective, and wistful nature of the show had easily drawn people in and allowed them to feel what they needed to feel during the show. By the end of the night, the set felt less like a usual Nashville spectacle and more like a shared experience throughout the room. The bond between the audience and the band felt palpable as Cut Worms utilized their music in a way that felt like they were speaking to each member of the crowd individually.
- Emily Duncko
Photos Courtesy of Emily Duncko (For Bell Music Magazine)
