Orville Peck @ Jacobs Pavilion (6/7/24)
Orville Peck, a modern day country singer, stopped by Jacobs Pavilion in Cleveland on Friday night as part of his Stampede tour. Orville is known for wearing a mask on stage that partially covers his face, hiding his identity, and creating a bigger than life character shrouded in mystery. The crowd dressed up for the occasion, and I had a lot of fun looking at everyones outfits they put together. I wore cowboy boots myself, and was happy to see many more stomping around throughout the day. When it was time for Orville Peck to come out, the stage was set with his five piece band and a huge light up banner at the back of the outdoor stage that spelled out his name. Orville entered the stage to a screaming crowd, and welcomed everyone with a sweet charm. He was dressed in a dark pinstripe suit, a white tank top, and a cropped jacket, which he eventually removed. Orville Peck is a very vocal member of the LGBTQ+ community, and it felt like such a safe space for those in the crowd that also identity as LGBTQ+. I think it's wonderful to have that representation within country music, and have a show that people feel comfortable being themselves at while in attendance. Orville started the show with his song "Big Sky," followed by "The Hurtin' Kind" and "Roses Are Falling." And speaking of roses, he handed out a whole bouquet worth of them throughout the night to people that caught his eye, whether it was because they were singing along, dancing, or because Orville liked their outfit. This type of personal engagement with the crowd was so unique, it felt like he was paying attention to the members of the audience in a way that most bigger artists don't. After thanking the fans for their support throughout the years, and specifically last year when he had to cancel a leg of his tour due to poor mental health, Orville played songs from throughout his catalog, ending on "Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting", an Elton John cover.
I am counting down the days until I can see Orville Peck perform again. He's an amazing asset to modern country music, and I hope he has years and years ahead of him, as Orville Peck.
Photos by Shelly Duncan
Orville Peck
