Bright Eyes: Tiny Desk (Home) Concert

The Tiny Desk is working from home for the foreseeable future. Introducing NPR Music's Tiny Desk (home) concerts, bringing you performances from across the country and the world. It's the same spirit - stripped-down sets, an intimate setting - just a different space.
Bob Boilen | September 28, 2020
It's been about a month since the release of the new Bright Eyes album. It's right about now that I likely would have seen Bright Eyes at the 9:30 Club here in D.C. Knowing that wasn't going to happen due to the pandemic, I'm thrilled to have Conor Oberst, Mike Mogis and Nate Walcott join "together" for a taste of live Bright Eyes. They recorded this Tiny Desk (home) concert with Conor and Mike at ARC Studios in Omaha, Neb., while Nate sits 1,500 miles away at Lucy's Meat Market, a well-equipped studio in Los Angeles filled with sweet-sounding vintage keyboards. Singing and seated behind him is Becky Stark, better known as Lavender Diamond, along with their daughter.
Despite the distance and the almost 10 years since their last record, the three songs they perform from Down in the Weeds, Where the World Once Was, are intense, with lyrics that are not always decipherable, filled with struggle and hope - in other words, the way I like them.
Conor has visited the Tiny Desk twice: first in 2014, when he brought his family and we invited kids for a memorable concert; and then in 2019 for a concert with Phoebe Bridgers as part of Better Oblivion Community Center. For this Tiny Desk (home) concert, he and the rest of Bright Eyes channeled that stripped-back rawness, and I think these songs shine for it.
SET LIST
"Mariana Trench"
"Pan and Broom"
"Persona Non Grata"
"Shell Games"
MUSICIANS
Conor Oberst: vocals, keyboard
Mike Mogis: pedal steel, Marxophone, electric guitar
Nathaniel Walcott: piano, organs, Casio, drum machines
Becky Stark: vocals
CREDITS
Directed by: Nik Fackler
Directors of Photography: Brent Scott Maze, Aaron Gum and Jon Bass
Production Assistant: Katy Baker
Audio by: Mike Mogis
Producer: Bob Boilen
Audio Mastering Engineer: Josh Rogosin
Video Producer: Maia Stern
Associate Producer: Bobby Carter
Executive Producer: Lauren Onkey
Senior VP, Programming: Anya Grundmann

[@LiquidDIO]

I was introduced to Bright Eyes by the girl I thought was the love of my life. 15 years later, at least I still have Bright Eyes.

[@TheElectBand]

we all were bro

[@drewsfarmhouse]

@@TheElectBand Jason don’t lie. All of us.

[@mattox198183]

Same 😂

[@MzMinnie789]

Similar happened with me and my first love and a band called admiral fallow. Was sore to listen to them after the heartbreak but glad 6 years on they’re still my favourite band.

[@LiquidDIO]

@@MzMinnie789 Yeah, I don't regret being introduced to them, but there's always going to be a certain nostalgic melancholy whenever I listen.

[@Noise_floorxx]

Shell Games came out when I was pregnant with my eldest son. “Here it comes that heavy love...” always reminded me of him

[@Waxinasss]

Reminds me of my family helping me raise my daughter. " I'm never gonna move it alone. "

[@d4mephisto]

That's beautiful that it reminds you of him. It takes a village. None of us were raised by just our parents alone. There was always someone that our parents leaned on for help, or neighbors, or friends, or other family. Can't get through this life alone.

[@lucidpromise123]

this is beautiful.

[@jacobvullings7170]

Mariana Trench 0:00 Pan and Broom 4:54 Persona Non Grata 9:30 Shell Games 14:03

[@HamTheOriginal]

So, all their worst Songs.

[@Blazerdalazer]

​@HamTheOriginal bro what shell games is so good

[@SpencerVincent]

"Lifted or The Story Is in the Soil, Keep Your Ear to the Ground" was one of the main reasons I got into songwriting 18 years ago... I now (almost) make a living doing it! Here's to the poets and music that moves you, makes you think, and cry sometimes.

[@ratmanbujold]

To love and to be loved, let's just hope that is enough

[@robintwiddy4246]

That album had a very similar, and profound effect on me.

[@mspacely6521]

One of the best written albums of all times imo.

[@ThatDamn_AndyV]

That album was almost like a spiritual awakening for me a 15 year old kid who was into punk rock like nofx and bad religion. If it wasn't for that album I don't think I'd be the person I am today.

[@cooperrobinson2975]

Way to go!! I know this comment is old, so I hope you've gained some momentum in your career by the time I'm replying

[@lukemedina19]

All I want is a book of poems by Oberst. He’s like the Dr. Seuss of songwriting sometimes!

[@Autotross]

Every album comes with one!

[@Rikoshima]

@@Autotross was about to comment the same thing; every album is a book of poems

[@saylerh7197]

The bob dylan of his generation

[@jPup_]

He actually was working on one but abandoned it, that's where the name for the new record came from! The lyrics definitely stand on their own without music though

[@alexperkins8433]

amen

[@subtlebodies5771]

Been my favorite band since I was 15 and now I’m 34. Still my favorite band, favorite lyrics. Conor is the reason I have a masters in poetry

[@babyshrimp2655]

That’s funny same for me!

[@RS-ym6fp]

In my opinion one of the greatest poets/lyricists ever!

[@HxC88NY]

So y’all are unemployed?

[@bl4841]

so Conor is the reason you're a grocery store employee. wow

[@fuzzybunny4muny]

I was maybe 19 when I heard them, I am 33. Used to push carts at Kroger listening to them, I'm reliving some of it tonight. Another life entirely.

[@loucat2779]

I would say that Conor and Bright Eyes may be an acquired taste for sure, so rewarding once you get settled in to his work.

[@NaomiVR]

‘If winter ends’ kept me from taking my own life. Can’t recount how often I scream-sang this song in my bedroom as a young teenager. So thanks bright eyes.

[@Duda4real]

I forgot how much I love his voice. I'm so happy to hear he still has it :-)

[@PerryNoydicus]

i love how all of Nate's equipment is like 30 years old. Really unique arrangements

[@ChadwickRider]

Man his lyric writing has always inspired me... Bowl of Oranges immediately comes to mind.

[@scara_escape_artist]

He's our Bob Dylan.

[@egrvz]

That song saved me from my adolescence

[@madtiboysen5397]

Bowl of Oranges is my death row song.

[@johanetalicekriel1362]

Dear Conor, Mike and Nate, I know the odds of you reading this are practically zilch, but here's my message in a bottle (or in a digital urn): Your music has saved my life and enriched my life more times than I can count. Thank you, bless you and much love to you (and to Becky and that cutie angel too) from South Africa

[@iansilitch9847]

Definitely saved mine

[@UnaLichtlein]

Mine too... 💜

[@catr.pillar328]

God sent his angels to save us all, he is an angel for sure

[@makius1400]

How good is it to to see Conner Oberst and Mike Mogis side by side again!? Man I missed the sound of that Mogis slide guitar...

[@dansenkat]

Beautiful performance. I still can't believe they are back.

[@annamarie1563]

same ✨

[@ChakFournier]

Bright eyes AKA : The band that makes me pause the song and think about what he just said..

[@rmh_223]

Unfortunately that can't be said about mainstream. Very few

[@aleksfakename7105]

me after feeling called out by "obsessed with death like a teenager"

[@angelinac7411]

His deep breathing while he speaks reminds me of my anxiety when I have to talk to people I don't know well.

[@SupercordsMusic]

These intimate home shows are such a treat. Not just for the music, but to see the casual interactions among band members. Completely different from what we might normally see on stage.

[@christiemarie8873]

Omg where have you been Bright Eyes! You’ve been in my life since I was 12!!!! I’ve missed you!

[@calebmontgomery3557]

Nate walcott is such a talented man

[@BL-be4qe]

this album was good. As someone going through grief some of his songs pretty much nailed it.

[@Mrcrisu8]

How can you not love that voice?

[@WillWorth]

New album is fantastic. Such a joy and support.

[@d4mephisto]

"this is a song kind of about being a little insane, I suppose, or at least being insane enough that people don't want you around" -- but we want you around, Conor

[@obsoleteoptics]

Yeah but you don't when he's not singing though, and that's what it's really about.

[@d4mephisto]

@@obsoleteoptics And that's why I like this song. Nobody wants me around when I'm not singing either. Well, I don't have Conor's voice, so nobody wants me around any time, ever. And thus, I can relate to this song. It's why I'm a huge fan of his.

[@obsoleteoptics]

@@d4mephisto same

[@TheCheesecakedeath]

Boy can I relate

[@scottlakey6751]

Thank you Bright Eyes, for a reason to keep living. As always, all love.

[@justinnemelka6740]

Ugh. Literally my fave musician/band of all time. 😫

[@noirglor2256]

Im in a field with my dog sitting under a tree thinking about my life but the view of the lake in the distance is alluring, all i can do is smile.

[@colingorman9156]

Just saw him live yesterday and he’s just a good spirit, which is pretty evident after still being famous 20+ years later

[@christopherchuauhang4829]

One of the best lyricists of our generation.

[@TheDanielwhelan]

Stripped down version on Marianna Trench is lovely ! Gives it a whole new life

[@canman8742]

I am always moved by Bright Eyes. Art!

[@lare_bear]

The new album really takes me back to 2004, weird girl with too many feelings and daydreams. Not much has changed though.

[@dilap11]

i keep waiting to outgrow bright eyes but it keeps not happening

[@LiquidDIO]

I can relate to that! Here's to the dreamers.

[@shazlynn3677]

same. and i still have a crush on conor

[@MartaRogala843]

Ooo, 2004 is when I was listening to the “I’m Wide Awake It’s Morning” album... If that’s the sound you’re referring to, (sounds like it to me)... then I’m glad you mentioned this, now I’m gonna check out the new album!!!

[@jhonviel7381]

a society of love struck losers 2021

[@marcoshadlich9755]

Thanks Conor, my bff since 2002 =~~~~

[@SpookieVonDookie]

This is my favorite band on earth

[@jgil1966]

i'm so happy we have Bright Eyes back with us! i specially always loved Shell Games

[@wwalsh0351]

Connor and bright eyes have been with my brother and I through a lot of confusion and worry. Thank you for all your work and for having the fortitude to share it. Your songs'll be a comfort to he and I as long as we live.

[@AranzaBoo]

Such a unique voice - always a favorite :)

[@possumpatch02]

Bright eyes. Tiny desk. My life is complete.

[@paulolapa3040]

There is also a Connor Oberst - Tiny Desk

[@sparklyhotdog707]

Bright Eyes molded me into who I am today. God love em

[@HolyHubcap]

Conor's songwriting is as strong as always. This album has is so great! I am so excited (hopefully) to see them on tour this year towards the summer if things shape up. So great they ended this Tiny Desk with "Shell Games", very relevant song to what is going in the here and now. Great job :D

[@NeverShoutKaila]

Persona Non Grata is one of my favorite songs off the new album. and Shell Games was one of my favorites off People’s Key

[@whatamiwatching2183]

What is it gonna take to get a live version of Calais to Dover 🤔

[@williamlee6249]

Thinking the same thing. The guitar work on that song is superb!

[@bluevelvet9885]

Best song on the record

[@rachelzuckett7413]

tour 😭

[@NeverShoutKaila]

i LIVE for the backup vocals in that song

[@d4mephisto]

I want to see and hear that guitar solo that comes in twice on "To Death's Heart (In Three Parts)". Around 2/3 into the song and then at the very end. It just sounds so heartbreaking. It gives me chills and goosebumps. Every. Single. Time.

[@johannak1440]

Shell games is one of their best songs. Fight me

[@johannak1440]

Better without the keyboard drum track but still!!

[@samonthewest]

Square up

[@zynstein8059]

Shell n Jejune are best 2 outta people's key by a mile imo. idk about best but 100% a strong one :)

[@Mmlosby24]

You guys are the best! I’m so glad the bands back together. Everyone on the count of three!,

[@shinyhaunter6019]

Conor . . I love you man..seen you at artpark in buffalo ny with the goats ! I miss your sweet sad self !

[@AlyssaAllDayVlogs]

Anxious deep breaths. Can relate.

[@sylvielopez2686]

Tank you very much tiny desk for sharing this great bands bright eyes so great words love en peace around the world merci beaucoup

[@LeslieStevenssss]

I'm feeling sick today and this made MY DAY! Thank you. LOVE that band & Becky Stark.

[@kaynemagrath]

I love you guys. Thanks for the show ❤️

[@fourwinds9687]

So beautiful. Thank you.

[@Shineyourlightxo]

22 years still love bright eyes! Conorrrrrr😊

[@sij6169]

Man you can physically see how and hear how much pain Connor still feels when he sings.

[@whitefangoneanime]

I love that Bright Eyes "from home" is through a Neve console

[@rachelzuckett7413]

it is legit right between his and mogis' homes though. i love that.

[@gillianba4240]

All respectively hott in their own way. Earlier Bright Eyes got me through high school, so thanks, y'all.

[@joncurt2157]

This is the first time youtube has been dead on with what I need. Thank you Conor!

[@rappinron1384]

What a genius!

[@lex4608]

love love love you guys. God bless ❤

[@peterhamilton6464]

Can we acknowledge the genius of piano as drums (standing ovation from Bob's personal sanitized desk)

[@user-eu1fg5tk4c]

Wonderous -- don't miss it.

[@caleighstardrifter1217]

You've always been wonderful and amazing to me!!! So happy you're keeping your magic up 🌜💫🌛

[@alerionhawke5398]

Love you guys thanks for everything you do 💚

[@thedrawest]

Music heals 🎶🎼🎵

[@championette..]

Word! 💜

[@garretharris9588]

❤️ hope In 2020 is what we all need. Bright eyes always makes my world better.

[@americannightmare2109]

A true trifecta. Happy and lucky to be apart of this in my lifetime. Since I was 13 got me thru so much. Just honesty

[@Rikoshima]

i love shell games and this stripped down version of it really made me appreciate it all over again. the new songs sound gorgeous too

[@wondermuffin9129]

Just beautiful. Thank you. ❤️

[@ryanjavierortega8513]

Oh good, he looks so much better! I was worried, seriously.

[@matthewolson8044]

Love the energy thanks Bright Eyes

[@allisonrockis1347]

I love bright eyes!

[@SKYxmusic]

he's such a legend

[@skeight976]

yes I love I just randomly looked this up and its current

[@KaryoSentiko]

So happy to see Bright Eyes return!

[@kylehall9047]

Love Bright Eyes! 2020 Conor Oberst is low-key looking like Elias from Clerks II

[@brandan8783]

Saw these guys maybe 16 years ago or more in 904 Fuel Coffee house ...me without you was there

[@ShotGunFellatio]

my favorite band in the entire world

[@BurningCreeper77]

Someone give Connor a hug

[@DJKuroh]

It's crazy to have recorded an album in that very same studio and have listened to playback on that same couch. Omaha represent!

[@DJKuroh]

@French Frys lol ok. Its ARC Studios in omaha. Tons of big names and local bands record there. I literally have photos of me there and photos of Bright Eyes' gear in the hallway. Its not some $1000 a day studio. It's not that crazy of a flex as its a pretty affordable studio and that room there in is the engineering room of the "small" studio where we recorded. For a real record they probably use the A room which is much bigger (and more expensive). Even big artists in Omaha are pretty down to earth and my band is in no way big. It was just our dream to record our album there. But sure I'm lying lol.

[@calebelkins6321]

@@DJKuroh Don't feed the trolls. Plenty of us believe you. Congrats!

[@DJKuroh]

@@calebelkins6321 Thank you Caleb!

[@D.A.-Espada]

@French Frys You're a sick person. Get help

[@jennyrubi398]

The fact that there's always a live performance of pan and broom. Ugh my heart can't take this ❤

[@SunnyBear]

This is frikken excellent, love the use of old drum machines in these songs.

[@BudOnTheLeaves]

Started writing poetry im 4th or 5th grade came across bright eyes in 7th/8th grade but got heavy into them in high school and Conor oberst pretty much saved my life

[@DawnRedwoods]

Yesterday, out of the whimsy of my own heart I chose to watch some Friday Night Lights where I was first introduced to Bright Eyes through Tony Lucca's cover of 'Devil Town'. Which is still to this day, the only song I ride my bike to at sunset to remind myself I'm the main character. And now I'm presented with this gem a day later... Dear God, Google, KZbin, and Facebook, Get out of my Amazon prime watch history.

[@loganwhitmore4930]

Devil town was originally written and song by Daniel Johnston. Brighteyes version is so good!

[@lindaengbrocks4186]

Thanks for this beautiful session

[@only1drawback]

Back to the old bright eyes. Man this sounded like Fevers & Mirrors for a while there.

[@AndiKnittel]

Thanks a lot for sharing this session. Can't wait for the tour in "real life". 🙂 Have a nice week. 🎸🕊

[@pangusTHEdangus]

This makes me feel.

[@ornithoptermum]

twist: conor oberst is being played by joaquin phoenix

[@nick-kassebaum]

hahha

[@Alisuuam]

Lol

[@destenjohnson]

Nailed it. Thanks!

[@nataliapeladeau5519]

Amazing! ❤️

[@jontaylor6398]

thanks bright eyes and bob

[@EmilyNoelM]

It was just fine. Just fine!

[@Webbedworld]

I LOVE YOU CONOR

[@paradoxthought2656]

Bright eyes is my favorite band of all time

[@alicelidell1370]

I missed him so much

[@ericopaschoalbitencourt6236]

HOLY MOSES! OUT OF NOWHERE! BOOM!

[@williamlee6249]

This was really cool, but in about 5 years from now I’ll think this is amazing.

[@gwockamol]

Omgggg yesssss. How did I not know about this!?

[@ryan.9275]

Bright Eyes got me through some terrible times. I'm so glad they finally got on the tiny desk series

[@jerryshaffer7978]

Connor has a few performances on tiny desk but I think this is the first time with the band

[@borntogazeintonightskies]

THEY BACK, BABY!

[@Huckleberry_boots]

Yaayyy...Can't wait 🥰

[@69belac]

Great set!!!!

[@JACK-ej9hh]

amazing springsteen tee 🤙🏻😎