Bon Iver Transforms into "Bon Dylan" for Epic Bob Dylan Cover Set at Eaux Claires!
Bon Iver Transforms into "Bon Dylan" for Epic Bob Dylan Cover Set at Eaux Claires!
Bon Iver's Justin Vernon amazed Eaux Claires Festival-goers as "Bon Dylan," performing an unforgettable set of Bob Dylan covers. Don't miss details of this epic musical tribute!
Music fans at the Eaux Claires Festival in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, were treated to a truly special event as Bon Iver, led by Justin Vernon, transformed into "Bon Dylan" for an unforgettable Bob Dylan covers set. The highly anticipated performance took place on July 24th, marking a significant moment as the festival itself made a triumphant return after an eight-year hiatus.
Justin Vernon, stepping up to the microphone, kicked off the 16-song journey through Dylan's legendary catalog with "Not Dark Yet" from 1997, followed by 1989's "Shooting Star." The set then delved deep into Dylan's iconic 1960s and 1970s output, with classics like "Don't Think Twice, It's All Right" from 1962 and "The Man in Me" from 1970. The initial part of the performance featured mostly acoustic arrangements, creating an intimate atmosphere.
As the night progressed, the band shifted gears, bringing in a full electric setup complete with guitars, bass, two drummers, gritty harmonica, and keys. This powerful evolution saw them tackle a duo of "Blood on the Tracks" tunes, including "Tangled Up in Blue" and "Meet Me in the Morning." "Tonight I'll Be Staying Here With You" from "Nashville Skyline" also made an appearance, with drummer Sean Carey taking over vocal duties. The 60s were further honored with "Boots of Spanish Leather," an acoustic duet featuring Vernon and Monica Martin, along with "Lay Lady Lay," "All Along the Watchtower," and "With God On Our Side." Even songs from Dylan's Christian trilogy, such as an organ- and piano-driven "When He Returns" and "Shot of Love," were performed. The grand finale saw Bon Dylan bring the house down with a rousing encore of "Knockin' on Heaven's Door."
Beyond the "Bon Dylan" spectacle, Justin Vernon also treated festival-goers to a last-minute solo acoustic set under the name "Bon," filling in for Kevin Morby. Eaux Claires, co-founded by Vernon and The National’s Aaron Dessner in 2015, delivered a memorable comeback, solidifying its place as a unique event in the music landscape.
