'An audience that matters to you:' Wilder Woods plays the 9:30 Club

Much like the artifacts that inspired The Curioso Tour, Wilder Woods’ music is a mix of the rare and the well-worn—both of which shone at the 9:30 Club on March 15.

As the voice behind Wilder Woods, Bear Rinehart brought a night that weaved together gospel-soaked soul, stripped indie-folk, and unapolagetic rock & roll, all bound by heartfelt storytelling on a stage he called "one of the best concert venues in the country."

The night kicked off with singer-songwriter Haffway—whose humor could easily rival his musical talents—setting the tone with a mix of folk and indie pop that complemented the soulful, genre-blurring sound of Wilder Woods.

By the time Rinehart and his band took the stage, the room buzzed with anticipation. Launching straight into “Time On My Hands,” he immediately set the mood with his signature mix of smoky vocals and rhythmic grooves.

Wilder Woods' set was a carefully crafted journey, shifting from the stomping intensity of “Hide Anymore” to the hushed sincerity of “Someday Soon.” Before the latter, Rinehart took a moment to reflect on fatherhood, joking, “It’s not very rock and roll to talk about your kids... but it’s real.” He went on to share the song’s meaning—his effort to show love to his children in a world that is often weighed in hardship. He added, “If you live long enough, you’ll survive a lot of times,” a sentiment that resonated deeply in the room.

The chemistry between Rinehart and guitarist Tyler Burkum was undeniable, with the two exchanging smiles and jams throughout the night. April Rucker’s background vocals added a rich depth, especially on “Offering,” where she and Rinehart delivered a powerful duet that silenced the room in admiration.

One of the night’s most electrifying moments came during “Supply & Demand.” Leaving the stage behind, Rinehart stepped into the crowd, singing his way through the audience, stopping for handshakes, hugs, and selfies with fans. It was a moment that blended the roles of performer and friend, a testament to the connection he builds through his music.

As the show neared its close, Rinehart reflected on the power of live performance, telling the crowd, “You can’t tell what kind of band you are until you play in front of an audience that matters to you; everything else is just rehearsal.” The 9:30 Club, packed with fans hanging onto every note, was clearly one of those audiences.

For a night that balanced grit with grace, energy with introspection, Wilder Woods has demonstrated that his solo project transcends the boundaries of his previous work, creating a realm where Bear Rinehart's creativity can truly flourish.

Setlist

Time On My Hands

Where Do We Go From Here

Heartland

Feel

Hide Anymore

Someday Soon

She Talks to Angels (The Black Crowes cover)

Wild Fire

Love Last

Devil In My Eyes

Criminal Mary

You're Wrong Offering (duet with April Rucker)

Maestro (Tears Don't Lie)

Swimming In The Ocean

Encore:

Be Yourself

Supply & Demand

Sink Our Love Now (work tape)