Michael On Fire continues U.S. tour

According to the U.K.’s Maverick Magazine, singer, songwriter and storyteller Michael On Fire has “a sound and style that epitomizes all that is so good about the Americana genre.”

Fortunately for local fans and those in favor of an eclectic mix of folk, blues, country and rock ‘n’ roll, the seasoned artist performed at Rachael’s Café Thursday night as part of his U.S. tour.

Along with touring, Michael also recently released his 16th and 17th records, “Cadillac Ranch” and “Live In London.”

Jerome Assad, Rachael’s Café’s booking manager, said booking Michael was a simple decision because of his respect for the singer.

He also said Michael’s sound would be a good fit for the atmosphere at Rachael’s Café.

“Michael On Fire is a nationally recognized act and has performed on numerous radio stations and live music TV shows, and we were excited to have someone who fits the kind of mood in terms of ambience musically at Rachael’s,” Assad said.

Among Michael’s noted qualities, Assad said the thing that drew him to the vocalist’s sound was his emotion.

“He’s not necessarily a provocative sort of artist, but he does put a lot of personal emotion into his music, and obviously a lot of soul,” Assad said.

Assad said he had high expectations for the show because of Michael’s ability to keep the audience engaged.

“He plays a lengthy, interesting set,” Assad said. “It’s not the kind of thing where someone will be playing for half an hour and you’ll be bored with what you’re listening to. It definitely keeps revolving, especially because the sound can be quite dramatic almost, and it definitely has an inner brevity to it.”

Michael On Fire is one of the many musical acts welcomed at the café, and Assad said he believes their upcoming shows will provide customers with a broad spectrum of sounds to sample.

“In the coming months, people will be able to enjoy enough surge in quality in terms of what they come to find (at Rachael’s), and they can really embrace Rachael’s Café more,” Assad said.

Follow IU Cinema reporter Olivia Williams on Twitter @obwillia.