I arrived just in time. If parking mayhem wasn’t enough to indicate She & Him’s popularity, the clamorous, packed house was. After M. Ward and Zooey Deschanel took The Wiltern stage, the crowd affectionately proclaimed their zealous responses throughout the set.
Fervor was a warranted reaction as Los Angeles welcomed home Zooey Deschanel on her birthday. Gleaming like a vintage prom queen, the actress-turned-lead-singer celebrated with a tiara and appreciative grace.
The evening was lively and entertaining for many reasons. When Barack Obama was mentioned, the venue erupted with a deafening roar. Deschanel tactfully ended the brief political commentary with “No on Prop. 8, Yes on Prop. 2, and Yes on Barack Obama.” To a theater filled with people enthralled by the political fervor of election week, it was an unimposing moment to share a few voting preferences while Ward tuned his guitar.
In addition to showcasing their debut album, Volume I, the audience was also privy to new material and timeless covers. I was awestruck by the selection of Nina Simone’s “I Put A Spell On You”, Joni Mitchell’s “You Turn Me On, I’m A Radio”, and Sam Cooke’s “Bring It On Home To Me”. A few of their borrowed tunes were performed as duets, with an unique contrast of Deschanel’s full-bodied, pitch-perfect voice and M. Ward’s breathy, soothing harmonies.
Despite frequently shying away from the limelight on stage, M. Ward’s musical presence was powerful and captivating. She & Hims pop-sensible folk tracks were transformed into ethereal treats with the dulcet elaborations of Wards live performance. His calm demeanor and illustrious guitar were an anchor for the evening.
People shuffled out of The Wiltern, buzzing about the enchanting pair. Until She & Him come back and play here, Los Angeles will be sitting on the shelf.
