On Aug. 30, world-renowned band The Lumineers brought their newest album, “Automatic,” to Soldier Field in downtown Chicago. They played a two-hour and 10-minute set that engaged the audience in a fun and inviting manner, leaving the crowd wanting more. 

Beginning at 6:30 pm, the first opener, Lake Street Dive, performed a 45-minute setlist that made every non-fan a new fan. Lake Street Drive was followed by St. Vincent, who began their show around 7:30 pm and played a 40-minute set. While both openers possessed genuine musical talent, one stood out clearly above the other: Lake Street Dive. The St. Vincent show was strange, lots of screaming and strange signals made the musicians seem out of place with the vibe of the concert. 

By the time The Lumineers were finally welcomed on stage, it was around 9 p.m., and they opened with “Same Old Song,” which is found on their newest album, “Automatic,” This led to my favorite song, “Flowers in Your Hair.” I thought the setlist included a great combination of newer songs and oldies. One song, “Leader of the Landslide,” featured an inclusion of verses from “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” by the Rolling Stones, and the band even covered “New York State of Mind” by Billy Joel. There was a moment in the show when the lead singer, Wesley Schultz, dedicated the show to his brother, who he lost in May of 2025. It was a touching moment that brought the audience together in solidarity with his brother whom he did not name.
At all concerts, there is always a section where the musicians introduce themselves in some boring manner that nobody really pays attention to. The Lumineers took this narrative and did something completely different and new. They started, all together playing and singing the chorus to the song “Big Parade,” then, at every verse, a different band member sang and introduced themselves. It was so interesting to watch, getting to hear all the individual talent while singing a fun and engaging song was a great way to get to know the band. I think that all bands should introduce themselves in this manner, as it made for a great addition to the concert. 

The band members themselves were incredible musicians and all blended together to create a fun environment that kept everyone in the crowd engaged and entertained. The pianist, guitarist, accordionist, and mandolinist, Stelth Ulvang, is especially known for playing every concert without wearing any shoes and running around the stage and venue full of energy. There was even a point in time when Ulvang climbed the speaker stands with his guitar and waved to the crowd below. The main artists are childhood friends, drummer Jeremiah Fraites and singer Schultz, their bond truly shines on stage as they spend many songs in the spotlight together. The rest of the band are truly some of the best musicians I have ever seen; they are all incredibly multi-talented, and their voices meld so well together.
I thought the venue wasn’t the best choice; it was a bit echoey, and there were some songs where you could barely hear the lyrics at all. Whether this is the band’s fault or Soldier Field’s is unknown. I know I’m not the only one who heard this, and I think the people in charge should have noticed it at sound check.

Overall, I thought that this was an incredible show. The selection of music and the atmosphere of the show itself were some of the key factors in making this one of my favorite concerts I have ever seen. 

4.5/ 5 Paws