It was a moment that left the crowd at Newport Folk Festival gasping for air – like Lucy Dacus's powerful vocals had sucked the very breath from their lungs. The American indie darling had already been wowing audiences with her soul-stirring set, but it was when she invited Brandon Flowers on stage to join forces on Jim Croce's timeless 'Time In A Bottle' that the magic really happened. The duo's stripped-back cover of this 1972 folk-pop classic sent shivers down the spines of everyone in attendance – and we're still reeling from the sheer brilliance of it all.
As she introduced Flowers as "Mr. Killers himself," Dacus set the stage for one of the festival's most talked-about moments. And what a moment it was! The collaboration showcased a different side to both artists, blending Dacus's emotive style with Flowers's distinctive vocals in a unique arrangement that left everyone wanting more.
But 'Time In A Bottle' wasn't the only surprise up Dacus's sleeve – earlier in her set, she'd already been joined by Paramore's Hayley Williams for a thrilling rendition of 'Bullseye', as well as Madi Diaz for a mesmerising performance of 'Heavy Metal'. These high-profile guest spots not only underscored Dacus's status as one to watch within the contemporary music scene but also her uncanny ability to draw in A-list talent like moths to a flame.
This was just the latest chapter in the ever-unfolding story of collaboration between Dacus and Flowers, who'd previously joined forces at Osheaga Festival last August for an unforgettable performance of 'Read My Mind'. And with their combined energies still buzzing from this Newport Folk Festival moment, we can't help but wonder what other magic these two are cooking up behind the scenes.
Speaking of which – Brandon Flowers is gearing up to release his third solo album, 'Thrasher', on 21 August via Island Records. With singles 'Plans' and 'Paradise' already giving us a tantalising glimpse into its sonic landscape, it's clear that this one's going to be a game-changer. And when the album drops, UK fans will have their chance to see Flowers live as he embarks on a UK, Ireland, and North American tour later in 2026 – Lucy Dacus, meanwhile, is still riding high on the success of 'Forever Is A Feeling', her critically acclaimed fourth album.