Photo by Ellen Qbertplaya via the Greene Space

Last night, Yo La Tengo continued their 2022 Hanukkah run at New York’s Bowery Ballroom. The night began with The Raincoats’ Gina Birch, who opened up the evening and was followed by comedian Brittany Carney. Then, as a special surprise, the event’s hosts brought out Sonic Youth’s Steve Shelley, who played drums throughout the frame.

In addition to Shelley, who guested as the backbeat for the night, Sleater-Kinney’s Corin Tucker was also in attendance, to the crowd’s delight, and assisted with a pair of covers that landed during the night’s encore. Included was a take on Neil Diamond’s “Solitary Man” and The Shirelles’ “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow.” 

Additional high points during the night’s main set included the sheer musicianship of Ira Kaplan on guitar and synth. In addition, James McNew’s bass provided spectacular moments of instrumentation. During the night the ensemble ran through tunes such as “The Story of Jazz” which kick-off the main frame, “I Was a Fool Beside You,” “Drug Test,” “The Story of Yo La Tengo,” and a rendition of Richard Hell’s “The Kid With The Irreplaceable Head.” View the complete setlist from last night’s show here.

Yo La Tengo will continue its holiday run today, marking the third night of its sold-out Hanukkah stand.