Isbell’s Heartfelt Honesty Closes Savannah Music Festival with Power

April 25, 2025

Jason Isbell closed out the Savannah Music Festival at the Mercer Theatre with a performance that resonated with “power, conviction, and elegance,” a fitting culmination to the festival’s diverse lineup. Isbell, a figure both “honest and intimidating,” held the audience captive, a man who, despite his intense presence, “opens his heart for everyone.”

You do not have to know his songs. None of them. Just listen. Listen to the words. The story will unfold, song after song.

This sentiment speaks to Isbell’s ability to craft narratives that transcend familiarity, drawing listeners into his world with each carefully chosen phrase.

Isbell appeared comfortable in his own skin, a man who has clearly faced and overcome personal struggles. His performance was a testament to his resilience, a raw and authentic display of vulnerability and strength.

Throughout the evening, Isbell interspersed his songs with wry observations and anecdotes, offering glimpses into his unique perspective.

Lines like, “Don’t drink and dive, you’ll spill it,” in “Cast Iiron skillet,” were delivered with a folksy charm. Or “Your girlfriend I broke your fucking heart and I don’t like it.” from ‘True Believer’ reveals the simplicity that Isbell can make an old broken romance seem apologetic.

Musically, Isbell was flawless. The precision and artistry of his performance were undeniable, each song a meticulously crafted experience.

The setlist, including “Declaration Day,” “Strawberry Woman,” “Those Were Different Days,” “Alabama Pines,” and “Super 8 Motel,” showcased Isbell’s range and depth. As he sang “Alabama Pines,” he remarked, “I did my time there,” a moment of shared experience that underscored his ability to connect with his audience on a deeply personal level.

Isbell’s performance at the Mercer Theatre was a masterclass in storytelling and musicianship, a fittingly powerful conclusion to the Savannah Music Festival. His honesty, intelligence, and undeniable talent left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to witness it. This concert, and the entire Savannah Music Festival, were a worthy “Send off.”