After a riveting performance from duo Wye Oak, the Decemberists' set began with the disembodied voice of "Sam Adams, Mayor of Portland, Oregon," encouraging audience members to mingle and interact, then to close our eyes and envision the band emerging from the fog of a midwestern forest. This entertaining opening characterized the set in that you as the audience always felt APART of the show, complicit in something wonderful and special. The Decemberists are all brilliant musicians and gifted performers who appear to love what they do very much, their joy and energy infectious. I couldn't have dreamed of a better setlist, with the band performing not only their terrific new material but many of their best songs from their back catalogue. Sara Watkins, a guest Decemberist for this tour and a gifted solo artist in her own right, played fiddle and provided beautiful and powerful backing vocals throughout, and was truly stunning as the lead on "Won't Want For Love". Colin Meloy, one of the most unique and talented songwriters working today, is a quirky and entertaining lead man, and is also remarkable for never dominating the spotlight; the Decemberists truly are a band, each member contributing to the character of the music and the performance. It was, hands down, one of the best shows I've ever seen.