Wilco proves their legendary status at the Fox Theater

Jeff Tweedy tried to hold back a knowing smile as he strolled onto the Fox Theater stage Saturday night. The crowd stomped and screamed under a cloud of thick smoke and colored lights as the rest of the Wilco members took position on stage. As the alternative rock band exchanged subtle glances, they burst into the song “Wilco.”

The Illinois band’s poetic and ironic experiences have already made for perfect alternative country music and lyrics. It’s hard to think of a more dedicated band. Within the band’s long lifespan, Wilco hammered out six albums and lost plenty of band members. However, the six-member group’s worldwide fame is unprecedented.

Since its formation in 1994, Wilco has seemed obsessed with experimentation and musical evolvement. Each album is distinctly different from the next, marking a refusal to stay stagnant.

Everything from country to electronica filled the Wilco set on June 21. The xylophone rippled in like raindrops during “Radio Cure,” while gentle harmonies weaved into the background.

A few beloved songs were missed during the performance.  The 10-minute song “Spiders” took up time that could have been spent on “Far, Far Away” or “California Stars.” Wilco’s dedication to deviation caused the band to miss a chance to show off some of their best songs.

But Wilco almost seems like too big a band to question. The three hour set sparked with creativity and depth. Wilco’s insightful lyrics and innovative drum beats made up for any lack in song choice.

Wilco impeccably connected with the audience without sacrificing rhythmic devotion. “Jesus, etc.” was played with acute poignancy as each note built upon the next. The crowd seemed mesmerized by Tweedy’s dexterity with the guitar.

At times, Tweedy’s haphazard acts of silliness downplayed their pure musical talent. It was a little too unnatural for him to skip with a smile along the stage while singing the existential lyrics of “Walken.”

But the performances were stunning enough for the audience. Wilco returned to the stage for two encores after the crowd pleaded with roars of applause and cheering. The song “Misunderstood” blew into a crescendo that inspired a sing-along. Tweedy closed his eyes and belted in repetition with the crowd, “I’d like to thank you all for NOTHING,” as if from the edge of a cliff.

The Fox Theater exploded Saturday night with guitar solos and vibrating overtones.  Wilco’s melancholy lyrics and layered instrumentation proved the band had enough energy and inspiration to continue on for generations. And with any luck, they will.