Gregory Alan Isakov (photo: Sara Uduwela)

Gregory Alan Isakov serenaded a full house at The Fox Theater in Oakland on Wednesday night, August 10, 2016. The South-African born singer-songwriter connected intimately with his audience during his 2-hour set. Backed by The Magik*Magik Orchestra, Isakov filled Oakland’s historic venue with echoes of folk music.

Isakov shared personal stories of songwriting. He spoke about creative roadblocks and how he finds the right balance of “flutie-ness” for his songs.

The audience cheered for “more sad songs” before falling into silence to hear every instrument and every tone of his voice.