Written & reviewed by Clinton Camper
April 13, 2025 – Austin, TX – ACL Live
If there’s one thing I’ve learned from years of seeing shows, it’s that there’s nothing quite like the feeling of being in the same room as an artist whose voice feels like it’s been carved from pure emotion. That was the magic of Amos Lee on Sunday night at ACL Live.
Right from the moment he stepped on stage, it was clear: this wasn’t just another show. Lee’s voice, rich and soulful, filled the venue like it was made to echo through those walls. The crowd? They were in it, hanging on every note, with every song feeling like an intimate conversation. The setlist was a perfect blend of his classics and newer material, and the audience couldn’t have been more receptive.
Lee kicked things off with “Windows Are Rolled Down”, and the mellow, groovy rhythm had the whole place swaying in unison. From there, he dove into “Sweet Pea”, and let me tell you, that track always has a way of making you feel like you’re floating in time, as if the world’s troubles just fade away for a moment.
But the real magic came during “Shout Out Loud”. That song has an energy that you almost have to feel to believe. The whole venue lit up with a collective energy that proved Lee knows how to balance the slow, aching ballads with a little soul-fire when the moment calls for it. It was a perfect mix of joy, nostalgia, and pure groove.
The night was also filled with heartfelt moments as Lee took a step back, chatting with the crowd between songs. He shared his appreciation for Austin's unique energy and even joked about how playing at ACL Live felt a little like a homecoming. And when he moved into “Colors”, the intimate atmosphere in the room became almost palpable. His voice soared effortlessly through the lyrics, and you could hear a pin drop in that space—a testament to his ability to captivate an entire audience with nothing but his raw talent.
The show wrapped up with “Vaporize”—an emotional closer that left the crowd breathless and in awe of the night they just experienced. It's safe to say that Amos Lee delivered not just a concert, but a soulful journey that felt like it lasted just long enough to leave you wanting more, yet long enough to leave a lasting imprint on your heart.