Concert review: NEEDTOBREATHE w/ Drew & Ellie Holcomb | 08.12.26, Saint Louis Music Park (with photo gallery)

Photo of NEEDTOBREATHE by Vertrell Yates

The natural chemistry of husband-and-wife team Drew & Ellie Holcomb provided warmth on a very hot day, a show that made it feel like we were all at an intimate house concert, especially once they came off the stage and danced/sung with the crowd. They had their band for some songs but also performed as just the duo, exploring their respective solo catalogs as well as their 2025 collaboration Rain or Shine (and even a cover of Walk the Moon’s “Shut Up and Dance”). I’d say their show is built around great storytelling, musicianship, and their connection to the audience. 

From the start of their Saint Louis Music Park set, NEEDTOBREATHE displayed their amazing harmonies until they ended showing appreciation. I know I’m not the only one that went to the concert & said something along the lines of “I felt a connection” or “It was an experience rather than just a show.” They played a great variety from their musical catalog from starting with “A Long Surrender” to even mixing John Prine into the set. Before I go, I’ll leave this thought: if you want to see more than “just a show,” you need to check out NEEDTOBREATHE to get an experience. | Vertrell Yates

NEEDTOBREATHE setlist:
The Long Surrender (Acoustic)
Riding High
Money and Fame
Say It Now
West Texas Wind
Drive All Night
Hang On / The Door
Sing to Me Savannah
Washed by the Water / Brother
Great Night
Angel From Montgomery (John Prine cover)
Momma Loves Me / Able (Solo)
Banks
Let’s Stay Home Tonight
Testify
Who Am I / I Am Yours
Multiplied
Forever on Your Side
Mercy’s Shore
Spirit in the Sky (Norman Greenbaum cover)
Lay ‘Em Down
I Shall Be Released (Bob Dylan cover)

Encore:
Spread the Ashes
Promised Land
The Outsiders
It’s the End of the World As We Know It (R.E.M. cover)