17. “Poison & Wine” – The Civil Wars

The Civil Wars are the most jaw dropping act I saw this year. I knew they were going to be good, but I wasn’t expecting the level brilliance they achieved. It’s absolutely astounding how just two people and a guitar can be powerful enough to bring a venue like The Wiltern to its knees.  There is a reason why the duo of Joy Williams and John Paul White are getting Grammy nominations and selling out venues across the country. Of course I love their break out hit “Barton Hallow”, but songs like “Poison and Wine” really showcase how something so simple can be so powerful in its quite beauty.

~ Kristen