Iron & Wine Me and Lazarus

Samuel Beam packed in some 10-odd musicians on the stage at the cozy Hideout Chicago. Twanging away on an assortment of mandolins, banjos, bongos, and even a complete horn section, Iron & Wine illuminated the small room.

The band played a short set, perhaps only thirty minutes long, but it was completely satisfying -- their music is absolutely beautiful live. The entire audience was captivated from start to finish, clearly appreciative of the intimate setting.

In between songs, Beam talked about his five daughters, his homebody ways, and his laissez-faire style of recording; it was his recording process that produced a fuller sound on the new album Kiss Each Other Clean. Beam explained it grew organically out of the quality band he had pieced together: "People you meet and you get to know over the years."

Also this week another Chicago favorite, Marketa Irglova of the Swell Season, confirmed she'll be joining Sam Beam's team, performing alongside Iron & Wine at Bonnaroo. It sounds like a beautiful way to spend an afternoon, sprawled out on a tapestry in the grass.

For fans that may have been underwhelmed by their newest album, the current live incarnation of Iron & Wine is a must-see, interpretations of past songs breathe fresh life into them, and their new songs sound even grander than on the album.