SLCene Suggests: Conor Oberst at Red Butte Garden

CONOR OBERST, RED BUTTE GARDEN, Sunday, Sept. 14, 6:30 p.m., $40

Considering the ridiculous comparisons and expectations heaped on Conor Oberst since he was a teenager leading Omaha band Bright Eyes, it’s remarkable that he’s continued creating must-hear music well into adulthood. I mean, how would YOU like to be compared to Bob Dylan when you’re just figuring out your musical voice? Still only 34, Oberst has two decades of remarkable music already tucked away in his back catalog, as leader of Bright Eyes and Desaparecidos and the Mystic Valley Band, as well as a member of Monsters of Folk with Jim James, Mike Mogis and M. Ward. His third solo album, Upside Down Mountain, came out earlier this year, and offers more evidence that Oberst is a voice with a lot to say musically. He’s also a winning live performer, capable of leading huge ensembles or playing solo sets, accompanied only by his acoustic guitar. As a season-capper at Red Butte Garden, he’s a fine choice. Jonathan Wilson opens the show.