Ben Folds: Racket 2023

Ben Folds is a musician who has been able to catch lightning in a bottle time and time again. He has been kind enough to share it with his fans through his songs and a fascinating memoir, 2019's A Dream About Lightning Bugs: A Life of Music and Cheap Lessons.

From his days with his trio, Ben Folds Five, to his solo work today, Folds has made exceptional art. His latest album, 2023's What Matters Most,  is a useful reminder that there is still good in the world.

A richly arranged exploration that includes horns, strings, and even a choir, What Matters Most, which includes songs like "Exhausting Lover" and "Kristine From the 7th Grade," is wisely guided by this man and his piano.  

Listen on demand to Ben's delightful performance and colorful commentary at Racket for FUV Live, in the player above, with videos below. And find more photos from the concert via FUV's Flickr.

[Recorded: 5/8/23; Engineered by Jim O'Hara, produced by José Ozaria]

Songs played:

• Exhausting Lover
• Annie Waits
• Fragile
• Kristine From the 7th Grade
• Capable of Anything
• Still Fighting It
• What Matters Most
• Landed
• You Don't Know Me
• Zak and Sara