Affected by Light cost Spirit of the Bear more than two years to finish, and the band is forthright about why: frontman James Harker’s cancer diagnosis and treatment throughout 2024 and 2025 shaped the record at its core. The Columbus, Ohio indie rock quintet calls it their most personal album, and they’re bringing it to western New York, landing at Buffalo Iron Works on Saturday, January 9, for the final night of their current tour.
About the Show
Spirit of the Bear is a five-piece with an unusual lineup: James Harker on vocals and guitar, Danny Svenson on keys and vocals, Ethan Schwendeman on a second set of keys, Jamie Vitullo on drums, and Mike Perorazio on bass. Two keyboard players in the same band is not a common arrangement, and the result is a layered, textured sound that separates them from standard indie rock configurations. Atwood Magazine gave their self-titled 2021 album an 8.9 out of 10, calling it “an invigorating swathe of soaring indie rock driven by passion, sincerity, substance, and verve.” The 405 put it plainly: the band is “giving bedroom pop a new spin.”
Affected by Light is also the name of the tour. Released on vinyl and CD through Wax Mage Records, the record absorbed two years of significant life events: a label split, major performances, and Harker’s illness and recovery. The band describes it as having “something for just about everyone.” This Buffalo show is the final stop, the night after a Cleveland date at the Beachland Ballroom — so expect a set that’s had time to settle into itself.
Opening the night is Ramblewood, the Ohio indie folk project of singer-songwriter Austin Harsh. His writing draws from blues and bluegrass while staying rooted in folk: intricate guitar work, heartfelt vocals, and songwriting built around themes of love, loss, and personal experience. His influences include Noah Kahan, The Lumineers, Caamp, and Mt. Joy. His debut release, “Adelaide,” came out in March 2023.
Venue & Logistics
Buffalo Iron Works is at 49 Illinois Street in Buffalo. The 500-capacity club suits this kind of bill well — big enough to hold a real show, close enough that there’s no bad spot in the room. Doors open at 7:00 p.m., show at 8:00 p.m. The event is 18-and-over.
Tickets
No ticket price was available from sources at the time of publication. Tickets are on sale through Eventim. Buy tickets