by Michael Wylie-Harris, first published in LondonTourdates #024 ,13th June 2008

Last night Tourdates had an epiphany… We stood in church for an hour and – for the first time – we truly believed! We clapped our hands, danced and sang along.
At points we nearly wept. God? No. Bon Iver!
The reputation of the Wisconsin-based band’s live show made last night’s performance at St Giles-in-the-Fields a hot ticket. And with the weighty expectations resting on Justin Vernon’s slight shoulders, he justly delivered - with a show that sent shivers down the spine.
Astonishing falsetto vocals that are reminiscent of the Anthony And The Johnsons, combined with the sort of haunting ambience that’s takes you back to Doves first album made last night’s religious setting the perfect venue.
I’d doubt that St Giles’ has been so seen such audience participation, buzzing atmosphere and joyous celebration since the medieval times – when people actually believed in God.
Michael Wylie-Harris