“Ho Hey,” The Lumineers close “Brightside” Tour by lighting up a sold out Wrigley Field

Photos by Andy Argyrakis

For exactly a decade, The Lumineers have steadily grown in artistry and popularity, reaching a pinnacle in both categories thus far with the release of “Brightside” and subsequently selling out arenas, amphitheaters or stadiums in the case of Wrigley Field.

It’s a rare feat for an act built primarily on indie rock, folk and Americana craftsmanship, all anchored by introspective lyrics, but the group more than rose to the challenge throughout a couple hours filled with constant hand-claps and foot-stomps that were as gigantic as the bleacher-reaching production.

Whether it was the current collection’s title track, “Cleopatra” or “Ho Hey,” the troupe wasted no time unloading some of its hugest hits, resulting in a constant stream of call and response chants.

They even managed to make the home of the Chicago Cubs feel intimate thanks to a circular runway that extended from the traditional stage and reached far onto the field with the players often switching places with one another and interacting directly with fans.

Perhaps U2’s influence rubbed off on the gang after opening “The Joshua Tree” trek in 2017, but make no mistake, The Lumineers kept proving to be similarly-sized headliners nowadays thanks to “A.M. Radio, “Where We Are” and several prior acoustically-centered but nonetheless soaring arrangements.

The band left few stones unturned with at least a couple dozen tunes, even bringing back opening singer/songwriter James Bay for “Gale Song,” prior to throwing a “Big Parade” to lead into the encore of the organic evening, which also included fellow folkies Caamp.

And considering this wound up being the final date of the entire tour, the extra energy was evident, especially in-person, though those who couldn’t score a ticket or preferred the comfort of their couch also had a livestream option, courtesy of the cameras hovering above the crowd.

Either way, it was a landmark show for The Lumineers, who have officially reached the major leagues, while continuing to not only joyfully engage with one another, but capture a close-knit sense of community that will hopefully allow these passionate musicians to last for the long haul.

For additional information on The Lumineers, visit TheLumineers.com.

For a list of upcoming concerts at Wrigley Field, visit MLB.com/Cubs/Tickets/Concerts.