An Intimate Evening with Ashley Monroe At Space In Evanston, IL

The night began with the soft hum of anticipation as fans filled Space in Evanston for an evening with Ashley Monroe. Space, known for its intimate and inviting atmosphere, set the stage for a memorable experience. The candle-lit cabaret tables created a warm ambiance, and the general admission area buzzed with excitement. Fans, both young and old, gathered early, their eagerness almost tangible.

Photos By: Aaron R Shriver Photography

Space in Evanston, established in 2008, is celebrated for its unique concert experience, making it a cherished spot for both artists and audiences alike. The venue strikes a perfect balance between cozy and vibrant, offering an intimate setting where every seat feels close to the action. With a seated capacity of 240, Space manages to feel both full and intimate.

Photo By: Harvey S. Tillis 

Space's charm lies in its ability to bring fans closer to their favorite artists, fostering a sense of community and shared experience. The venue's layout and ambiance make it an ideal place for artists like Ashley Monroe, whose music thrives in environments where listeners can fully immerse themselves in the performance. The combination of intimate seating, exceptional acoustics, and a warm, inviting atmosphere made for an unforgettable night.

Striking Matches, an American duo composed of Sarah Zimmermann and Justin Davis, opened the evening with an electric energy that immediately drew the audience in. Meeting in a guitar seminar class at Nashville's Belmont University, their chemistry and shared passion for music were evident from the first strum. They began their set with "Six String Baby," showcasing their exceptional guitar skills and tight harmonies, which set a vibrant tone for the evening.

Their performance was not just about technical prowess; it was filled with heartfelt moments that resonated with the audience. They shared stories behind their songs, offering glimpses into their journey and creative process. One standout moment was their performance of "When It's Raining," a fan favorite that they recently recorded. The song's emotional depth and melodic structure captivated everyone, creating a shared experience that felt intimate and genuine.

Click The Image For The Full Striking Matches Photo Gallery

Striking Matches also delighted the crowd with a surprise cover of The Beatles' "While My Guitar Gently Weeps." Their rendition paid homage to the classic while infusing it with their unique style, which earned them enthusiastic applause. The duo wrapped up their set with a mix of new music slated for release in 2025, leaving the crowd buzzing with anticipation for what was to come. Their performance was a perfect prelude, setting a high bar for the rest of the night.

Ashley Monroe's connection with the audience was nothing short of magical. From the moment she took the stage, she exuded warmth and authenticity, creating an atmosphere where everyone felt seen and appreciated. Her storytelling added a deeply personal touch to the evening, as she shared anecdotes about her life and the inspiration behind her songs. When she spoke of her roots in Knoxville and the emotional journey that led to her songwriting, you could feel the room collectively holding its breath, hanging onto every word.

Her interactions were genuine and heartfelt, making each person in the room feel as though they were part of an intimate conversation. She laughed with the crowd, recalled memories, and even took a moment to express her gratitude for the support she's received over the years. This created a sense of camaraderie that elevated the entire experience. The audience's responses, whether through soft sing-alongs or enthusiastic applause, were a testament to the deep connection she fostered throughout her set. Monroe's ability to blend her musical talent with such personal engagement made the evening not just a concert, but a memorable, shared experience that resonated deeply with everyone present.

Ashley Monroe's setlist was a carefully curated journey through her musical career, touching on both fan favorites and deeper cuts. Opening with the hauntingly beautiful "There You Are," she immediately set a reflective and emotional tone. "Hands On You" followed, showcasing her ability to blend vulnerability with strength. The playful "She Wakes Me Up," a song about her beloved dog, brought a lighthearted moment that had the audience smiling and nodding along.

When Striking Matches rejoined Monroe on stage, the collaboration added an extra layer of richness to the performance, particularly evident in "If The Devil Don't Want Me." One of the night's highlights was the debut of "Hot Rod Pipe Dream," a new song that was met with eager applause and excitement. Her cover of the Beach Boys' "Don't Worry Baby" was a nostalgic treat, while "The Truth," a song she penned for Jason Aldean, showcased her songwriting prowess.

The setlist also included "Heart Like Mine," co-written with Miranda Lambert, and the cheeky "Weed Instead of Roses," which had the crowd singing along enthusiastically. Ashley told the IL crowd I knew you would like that one, you know my fellow Annie Angaleena and I take day trips to IL from time to time. For the encore, Monroe treated fans to "Winning Streak," leaving everyone with a sense of joy and connection.

Ashley Monroe's performance at Space in Evanston was a unique blend of personal storytelling, musical mastery, and heartfelt connection. One standout aspect was her ability to seamlessly transition between instruments, moving from the piano to the guitar with effortless grace. This versatility added layers to her performance, showcasing her multifaceted talent. Another distinctive feature was her willingness to share the stage with Striking Matches for a significant portion of the set, transforming the concert into a collaborative experience that enriched the evening's musical landscape.

For The Full Ashley Monroe Photo Gallery Click The Image Above

Perhaps most memorable was Monroe's genuine interaction with her audience. She spoke candidly about her life, her creative process, and even her casual approach to these "Dates," making the night feel like an intimate gathering among friends. This authenticity created an unforgettable concert experience, leaving fans with a lasting sense of connection and appreciation.

For More On Ashley Monroe Click Here!

Ashley Monroe Set-List:

There You Are (Piano)

Hands On You

She Wakes Me Up

If The Devil Don’t Want Me

Like A Rose

Hot Rod Pipe Dream

Don’t Worry Baby (Beach Boys Cover)

The Truth (Jason Aldean Cut)

Nights In White Satin (Moody Blues Cover)

Wild Love

Heart Like Mine (Miranda lambert Cut)

Weed Instead Of Roses

Winning Streak