Jim James rocks First Avenue on Uniform Distortion tour

Jim James returned to First Avenue for the first time since 2013 and played an incredible show in support of his 2018 release Uniform Distortion. James was all business on this night, taking little time to chat between songs. But instead, he and his new band rocked hard, and let the music do the talking.

The mainroom was about three-quarters full and it was clear that those in attendance were big fans already. Jim James last played the Twin Cities in 2016 at the State Theatre and that show was a bit up and down in terms of consistency. This show at First Avenue was much better with songs like “Throwback” from Uniform Distortion conjuring up that vintage My Morning Jacket sound. James’ band on this tour is incredible, and drove home a hard-hitting punch all night.

For the encore, Jim James returned to the stage solo with his acoustic guitar and played a beautiful version of “Golden” by My Morning Jacket, then “I’m Amazed”. The band returned for “Of the Mother Again” from the James’ 2012 solo debut Regions of Light and Sound of God. It was dancey and awesome. The night ended with a very crunchy and heavy version of “State Of The Art (A.E.I.O.U)”. In a show that was packed with beautiful moments, this was been the best song played all night and it left the entire crowd exiting with a smile. Jim James and his band absolutely rocked First Avenue in Minneapolis. The opening band Amo Amo was wonderful as well and I highly encourage you to check them out. Jim James produced their 2019 self-titled debut album.

Photos taken from front of house soundboard.