Molly Tuttle’s “The Highway Knows Tour” has been more than just a series of performances; it is a profound testament to her evolution as an artist, celebrating her latest release, So Long Little Miss Sunshine. At Boston’s Royale Night Club, she and her band hit the stage and exploded with the vibrant energy of her new material while paying homage to the roots that have defined her career. Tuttle’s stage presence is both commanding and disarmingly intimate, making this visit to Beantown feel like a personal gathering where she and her band, a group of virtuosic musicians in their own right, are sharing their stories through song. It is a show that seamlessly blends her signature bluegrass precision with a newfound, bold pop sensibility.
The September 17th performance kicked off with an undeniable radiance, diving directly into the pop-oriented single “Everything Burns”. The song’s infectious rhythm and soaring melody immediately set a high-octane pace for the night. Tuttle followed this with the tour’s title track, “The Highway Knows”, a song that showcased her intricate fingerpicking and soulful storytelling. A truly standout moment came early in the set with a rollicking and reconfigured cover of the Rolling Stones’ classic, “She’s a Rainbow”. The arrangement transformed the psychedelic original into a banjo-fueled jamboree, delighting the crowd and demonstrating Tuttle’s fearless creativity.
As the show progressed, Tuttle and her band maintained the electrifying momentum. The setlist was carefully curated to take the audience on a journey through her diverse discography. Tuttle’s interactions with the crowd were warm and genuine, sharing anecdotes about her songwriting process and the inspiration behind her music. This personal touch created a deeper connection, allowing the audience to feel a part of the performance rather than just spectators. The band’s chemistry was undeniable, with each musician contributing a layer of brilliance that elevated the songs beyond their studio versions.
Mid-set, the performance reached a crescendo with a solid and much-appreciated nod to her time with The Golden Highway. These moments were a reminder of her foundation in traditional bluegrass, and the audience reveled in the return to her acclaimed, award-winning sound. The band performed smashing takes on “Alice in the Bluegrass” and “Where Did All the Wild Things Go?”, each delivered with a precision and fire that showcased their collective instrumental prowess. The crowd also enthusiastically received the high-energy “Down Home Dispensary” and the lyrical elegance of “The River Knows”, which further solidified her status as a bluegrass innovator.
As the night approached its climax, Tuttle continued to wow her fans with an eclectic mix of fan favorites and recent releases. “Old Me (New Wig)” was a playful and powerful highlight, its quirky lyrics and driving rhythm creating a moment of pure fun. A particularly special moment came when she was joined by show-opener Cecelia Castleman for a stunning duet of “Crooked Tree”, a harmonious performance that showcased the beautiful synergy between the two artists. The main set then concluded with the reflective and beautiful “Take a Journey”, leaving the audience on a thoughtful and appreciative high note.
The audience, clearly not ready for the night to end, enthusiastically called for an encore. Tuttle and the band returned to the stage, graciously accepting the adoration of their fans. The encore kicked off with “More Like a River”, a flowing and beautiful track that perfectly demonstrated her vocal control and emotional depth. The final surprise of the night, however, was a completely unexpected and high-octane cover of Icona Pop’s pop anthem, “I Love It”. The bluegrass rendition was an audacious and exhilarating finale, sending the crowd home on a wave of euphoria.
Tuttle’s “The Highway Knows Tour” is a masterclass in musical versatility and performance. The show is a perfectly balanced experience, honoring her roots while boldly embracing new directions. From the blazing instrumentals to the heartfelt lyrics and engaging stage presence, Tuttle proves she is a force to be reckoned with in the modern music landscape. This tour is not just for her longtime fans but for anyone who appreciates impeccable musicianship and a truly unforgettable live show.
