Ep 10. Jason Isbell/Neko Case

Jason Isbell and Neko Case are two of the most celebrated singer-songwriters of their generation, and in this episode of Austin City Limits, they join forces for an unforgettable night of music. Isbell is a former member of the Southern rock band Drive-By Truckers who has reinvented himself as a solo artist with a string of critically acclaimed albums, while Case is a versatile performer who has dabbled in country, alternative rock, and indie pop over the course of her career. Together, they bring their distinct voices and styles to the ACL stage, backed by their respective bands, the 400 Unit and Her Boyfriends.

The concert begins with Isbell taking the stage and launching into "Stockholm," a brooding, introspective ballad that sets the tone for the evening. Isbell alternates between electric and acoustic guitars as he performs a mix of songs from his latest album, Something More Than Free, and older favorites. One of the highlights is "24 Frames," a haunting track that showcases Isbell's poetic lyrics and soulful vocals. Another standout is "Codeine," a rollicking country-rocker that features soaring guitar solos and a rousing chorus.

Case joins Isbell midway through his set for a duet on "Tour of Duty," a duet that highlights the two artists' complementary voices. Case then takes the stage for her own solo set, which kicks off with the rousing "City Swans," a track from her latest album, Hell-On. The song's driving rhythm and catchy melody showcase Case's pop sensibilities, while her distinctive voice adds a hint of twang and grit.

Case's set is eclectic and adventurous, showcasing her wide-ranging influences and songwriting talents. She performs everything from the moody, atmospheric "Calling Cards" to the sunny, uptempo "Man," a track that channels 1960s girl-group pop with its catchy chorus and handclap beat. One of the show's most memorable moments comes when Case performs "Ragtime," a haunting, mournful ballad about a prostitute during the gold rush era. The song's spare instrumentation and poignant lyrics showcase Case's ability to convey complex emotions through her music.

Isbell rejoins Case onstage for the home stretch of the concert, and the two collaborate on a handful of songs, including "If We Were Vampires," a poignant duet from Isbell's latest album that explores the fleeting nature of mortality and love. The two artists' voices blend beautifully on the song, creating an intimate, tender moment that brings the audience to a hushed silence. The concert closes on a high note with "To Love Somebody," a cover of the classic Bee Gees tune that showcases Isbell and Case's playful, affectionate chemistry as they trade verses and harmonize on the chorus.

Throughout the show, Isbell and Case share stories and banter with the audience, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that makes it feel like they're playing in someone's living room. The crowd responds enthusiastically to the music, cheering and singing along to the familiar tunes and listening attentively to the new material. Whether performing alone or together, Isbell and Case prove that they are two of the most talented, compelling artists working today, and this episode is a testament to their enduring appeal.