Ep 2. The Wallflowers

MTV Unplugged is a music television series that literally pioneered the trend of featuring artists in intimate settings, performing with stripped-down versions of their hits. With Season 8 Episode 2, fans of the legendary MTV Unplugged series are in for a real treat, as the show welcomes The Wallflowers to its stage. The Wallflowers is an American rock band that formed in Los Angeles in 1989 and is still going strong today. They rose to fame with their 1996 album Bringing Down the Horse, which had several hits like "One Headlight," "6th Avenue Heartache," and "The Difference." Their MTV Unplugged set has been eagerly awaited by fans, and it doesn't disappoint.

The stage is set with lush greenery and vintage lamps creating a warm, cozy atmosphere that's perfect for the unplugged concept. As the band takes the stage, fans can't help but feel the excitement building as they eagerly anticipate the new renditions of their favorite hits. The band lineup includes Jakob Dylan on vocals and guitar, Rami Jaffee on keyboards, Greg Richling on bass guitar, Fred Eltringham on drums, Stuart Mathis on guitar, and Michael Ward on guitar and mandolin.

The set begins with "Three Marlenas," one of the most loved tracks from their album Bringing Down the Horse. The pared-down version captures the raw emotion of the lyrics and showcases Dylan's rich, soulful voice backed by beautiful harmonies. Next up is "The Empire in My Mind," a track from their 2002 album Red Letter Days. The acoustic rendition has a more mature, reflective sound, and Dylan's lyrics explore the confusion and self-doubt that many people experience. The mood gets a bit more upbeat with "Closer to You," a romantic ballad that showcases the band's unique blend of acoustic and electric guitars, and Jaffee's fluid keyboard playing.

One of the highlights of the set is undoubtedly "One Headlight," the song that won The Wallflowers two Grammy Awards and became an anthem for a generation. The unplugged version has a more subdued feel but retains all the power and emotion of the original. Dylan's vocals are hauntingly beautiful, and the band's chemistry is palpable as they effortlessly flow from one melody to another. Fans will also love "The Difference," a song that features Dylan's reflective lyrics and the band's soaring harmonies. The acoustic guitar and mandolin are blended perfectly to create a track that is both melodic and soulful.

Other standout tracks include "Sleepwalker," "6th Avenue Heartache," and "Three Ways," which have all been given a new lease of life with the unplugged treatment. "Sleepwalker" has a dreamy, almost ethereal quality that perfectly captures the melancholic lyrics, while "6th Avenue Heartache" features stunning guitar work and evocative storytelling. "Three Ways" is the perfect closer for the set, with its simple, catchy melody, and upbeat tempo that leaves the audience feeling energized.

Overall, The Wallflowers' MTV Unplugged set is a triumphant return for the band to the series. The new renditions of classic tracks breathe new life into the band's extensive catalog, and the intimate setting allows fans to experience the music in a way they never have before. Jakob Dylan's vocals are as powerful as ever, and the band's chemistry is undeniable. This set is sure to be a favorite of longtime fans and new converts alike and is a must-watch for anyone who loves quality music.