When many think of award winning actor Kevin Costner, they usually think about his long list of roles in films such as The Untouchables (1987), Bull Durham (1988), Field of Dreams (1989), The Bodyguard (1992), among many more. While Costner has established himself as an A-list star in Hollywood, continuously making films, he also has an irresistible love for music. His love was so strong that in 2007 he formed his own band called Kevin Costner & Modern West. Making time in a busy work schedule, Costner and company have put out four studio albums in that time and performed numerous live shows, helping spread the word of their engaging blend of country and rock. On Sunday April 13th Costner came to The Paramount in Huntington, NY with his daughter Lily Costner as an opening act to showcase their music to Long Islanders. Packed with fans carrying homemade Kevin Costner signs, movie posters, and other memorabilia ensured this was going to be an exciting evening.
Set up for a relaxing evening of music, chairs were lined up on the floor of The Paramount as each seat was filled waiting for Lily to take the stage. Walking onto the stage with an acoustic guitar and one other member playing a banjo, Lily began playing a series of her music. Reserved and shy at first, Lily found her footing with the audience immediately as she strummed her guitar and sang beautifully. Her music is a blend of folk and country rock that would please fans of artists like Eisley. Her warm vibrant tones resonated through the room, showing her immense talents. Appearing sincere and gracious, Lilly dedicated the last song of her set to her father. The crowd applauded her and this was undoubtedly a positive experience for both Lily and The Paramount. It is highly recommended you check out her music for Lily is a dedicated and beautiful vocalist.
Shortly after Lily’s performance, the audience sat on the edge of their seat as Kevin Costner and The Modern West took the stage. Waving hello to everyone, Costner took off into a set of straight-up Americana country rock. His style is reminiscent of the working class vocalists Bruce Springsteen and John Mellencamp. Songs like “Turn It On”, “Maria Nay”, and “Long Hot Night” showed a sensitive man expressing words in the form of real songs that strike a chord in the heart of all. The audience was tapping their feet, clapping along, and having a blast throughout the set. The Modern West did a superior job backing Costner with rich texture and acoustics that filled The Paramount.
Costner came across as a humble, friendly man with an excellent rapport with the crowd. He did not project himself as a big movie star and was extremely personable and down-to-earth. Speaking with the audience openly about his music really was a special experience for all. Each song had the same passion and quality as the song before and Costner showed his talents extend much deeper than the big screen. One of the most special moments of the performance was when Lily came onto the stage to sing “Let Me Be The One” with her father. The magic of the father/daughter tandem on stage was a sight to see. The emotion in their voices and chemistry bleeding from their harmony had the audience raving.
Kevin Costner unquestionably put on a stellar live performance. He knew exactly how to keep the music and conversation balanced while keeping the atmosphere intimate. If you are a fan of folk rock, country rock, or just plain good soul feeding rock music, check out Kevin Costner & Modern West, you will not be disappointed.
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