Faye Webster warmed a February crowd at Minneapolis’ Fine Line last week, celebrating her latest album I Know I’m Funny haha with her dedicated and adoring fans.

Virginia-based Kate Bollinger began the evening with a delicate opening set. Playing songs from her impressive collection of singles and EPs, highlights included most recent release Yards / Gardens, her second with Ghostly International. In listening to Bollinger’s set, one realizes that all of her songs are well-produced, unique and significant on their own. My personal favorite, A Couple Things off of 2020 EP A word becomes a sound, is a simple yet wildly satisfying tune. Everything from the bass line to the bouncy melody is pared down, there’s no extra fluff. After hearing what she is able to accomplish with shorter releases, I cannot wait to see what Bollinger is able to craft with an extended release.

It appeared that Fine Line was back to pre-pandemic capacity for Faye Webster’s set. The oft-described “packed” venue felt even tighter, with fans clamoring to get closer to Webster’s stage. She began with Better Distractions, the first song off of the 2021 album I Know I’m Funny haha. There was an immediate atmosphere and warmth emanating from the stage with this tune (thankfully she has recently released an Electric Lady Studios live album, if you’re curious as to how these songs sound live). Red circle lights with “haha” decorated the stage, and Webster appeared wearing a blue wrap dress, obviously referencing the album’s artwork.

As Webster continued through the beginning of the set, there was no sense of rushing or frantic energy at all. She was mesmerizing, walking slowly back and forth across the stage, often with eyes closed, swaying to the music. Much of Faye Webster’s music is perfect for lazy Sundays, weekend drives, and summertime walks. On a cold, February night, it was as though her music warmed the venue from the inside out.

There is an effortlessness to the way Webster exists. Similarly to opener Kate Bollinger, it’s as though singing, songwriting and guitar-playing come naturally, as if she was born to perform. Webster concludes her spring US tour next week before joining HAIM for select dates in May. You can find those tour dates here.

Photos: Morgan Winston