Noah Kahan

Article by Brittany Ormiston

“Raise those hands Indy! Put ‘em down!” shouted Noah Kahan while holding back laughter. The Indianapolis show felt similar to a large group of close friends sitting around a campfire. Everyone was singing in unison with Noah, delectable folk-infused pop instrumentals were heard from afar, and the stage setup of a forest was the cherry on top. Noah’s vision and personality shined through from the get-go, and it was quite apparent he takes great pride in hailing from New England (Vermont, New Hampshire).

Before Noah took the stage, the introduction mentioned his hometown and several other fun facts. Faux trees towered over Noah while he performed tracks from his recent album, Stick Season, which further exemplified his perspective of growing up in New England.  The title track ‘Stick Season’ was the perfect example of this as it described the time of year in that region where the leaves have fallen, it is incredibly cold, but there is no snow yet. Noah also used this metaphor to discuss change and transition naturally occurring in relationships, and daily life. His performance of ‘Northern Attitude’ continued to elaborate on life in New England with a twist of soul-searching. The intense drum loops during the chorus made the crowd feel on top of the world, and listening intently to the lyrics allowed for self-reflection.

Noah’s performance and songwriting were overflowing with honesty. He showed no fear when discussing those life moments most individuals bury far beneath the surface. Noah made a beautiful tribute to his late friend, Carlo, and stated he sings ‘Carlo’s Song’ everywhere he goes. The track is close to his heart, and he feels as if his dear friend is still with him each time it is performed. ‘Growing Sideways’ was about feeling stuck, and only being able to move sideways. Noah utilized his personal experiences of mental health struggles and therapy as inspiration for this track. He admitted to lying in therapy as a child, and has allowed himself to start healing by attending therapy as an adult and facing his trauma. The crowd displayed some relatability to ‘Growing Sideways’ based on how they screamed the lyrics back to Noah as the house lights illuminated the venue.   

The crowd in Indianapolis showed just as much appreciation for Noah as he showed them. They sang every lyric clear as day, and swayed back and forth while smiling ear to ear. The music was coursing through the veins of everyone in attendance. They had the perfect opportunity to link arms and dance around in a circle without a care in the world. Joy was floating through the air, and a fan in the front row offered to give Noah flowers she had brought. He was so delighted to accept them, especially because he had never received any before that night. In just one evening, old fans, new fans, Noah, and his band formed a bond with one another to last a lifetime.

Noah has a heart of gold, a gentle spirit, and is altruistic without a doubt. He writes music as an outlet for his mental health, and in turn is able to throw a lifeline to those who listen. Noah shows support to all individuals with his influential songwriting, and throughout his live performances. He is an expressive vocalist, and utilizes his sense of humor to create a safe space for all. Noah’s unmatched talent and storytelling will continue to be heard throughout the forests of New England and beyond.

Egyptian Room of Old National Centre in Indianapolis, IN on February 7, 2023

Photos by Everly Ormiston