Ben Folds Live With The National Symphony Orchestra

Live at The Kennedy Center In Washington, DC.

Tracks: But Wait, There's More; Fragile; Kristine From The 7th Grade; Effington..; The Luckiest; Capable of Anything; Still Fighting It; You Don't Know Me (ft. Regina Spektor); Landed; Still; Cologne; Moments (ft. Tall Heights); Gracie; Not The Same

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Ben Folds’ collaboration with the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center in autumn 2024 isn’t your average live album. It’s not a gentle background listen either—it’s a performance that grabs your attention and shows what happens when a songwriter known for sharp piano pop joins forces with a full orchestra.

Under Steven Reineke’s direction, and during Folds’ time as Artistic Advisor to the Orchestra, this recording captures him stepping into new territory. His piano and vocals are still front and centre, but the orchestral arrangements add a richness and depth that make familiar songs feel fresh.

The live setting makes a big difference. You hear the audience, the quiet moments, the big crescendos—it all adds to the atmosphere. Songs like Landed and The Luckiest stand out, reshaped by the orchestral backdrop. What once felt like private reflections now come across as shared experiences, lifted by the sweep of strings and brass.

It’s worth pointing out that, while Folds has never had a huge breakout hit in the UK—either solo or with Ben Folds Five—he’s built a loyal following that keeps growing. His shows sell out quickly, and this album is the kind of release that strengthens that connection, offering something both familiar and new.

Folds has always been talented at telling stories about everyday life, but here those stories feel bigger. The orchestra adds scale without losing the intimacy, turning personal moments into something more universal.

This album marks an important stage in his career—a clear example of how collaboration can open up new directions. For listeners who enjoy the grandeur of classical music but also value the honesty of a singer-songwriter, it’s a perfect blend.

More than just another live record, it’s a highlight in the ongoing story of orchestral pop. Skipping it would mean missing a key moment from an artist who continues to grow his audience and push his sound forward.

A thoughtful celebration of a unique collaboration.