CONCERT REVIEW: Gavin DeGraw Celebrates 20 Years Of Chariot With Ecstatic Amsterdam Crowd

To mark the 20th anniversary of the album that launched his career, Gavin DeGraw embarked on an extensive European tour, making a much-anticipated stop in the Netherlands. His return after several years drew an impressive turnout, nearly filling Amsterdam’s AFAS Live, with fans eager to relive the music that defined much of his early success.

Unsurprisingly, the setlist leaned heavily into Chariot, the album that first captivated audiences two decades ago. However, the evening also honoured DeGraw’s full musical journey, featuring a diverse selection of songs from his entire discography. To further engage the crowd, DeGraw and his band included a few covers, adding a layer of variety to the performance.

From a production standpoint, the show was intentionally minimalistic. The band members each held their own spaces on stage, but beyond that, the setup was understated—no backdrop, screens, or elaborate visuals. This approach kept the focus squarely on the music itself, showcasing DeGraw’s stage presence and musicality without distraction.

Between songs, DeGraw connected with the audience in a casual, conversational manner, sharing personal stories and insights into the inspirations behind his songs. Given the years since his last visit, fans appeared thrilled to experience these songs live once more. However, there was a sense that the show could have benefited from a more dynamic production to fully match the significance of the anniversary.

Overall, DeGraw and his band displayed impressive musicianship, and his vocal strength remains a testament to his enduring talent. The concert was well-paced, and the audience’s enthusiasm was palpable throughout. Here’s hoping DeGraw won’t wait too long before bringing his music back to the Netherlands.

Glenn van den Bosch

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