Concert Review: Ashley McBryde Brings Authenticity and Heart to the Into the Wild Tour at the F.M. Kirby Center in Wilkes-Barre, PA
Updated: 53 minutes ago
Ashley McBryde, the tattooed outlaw who has always done things her own way, famously refusing to conform to Nashville expectations, including dyeing her hair blonde.
Ashley McBryde released her newest album, Wild, on May 8, 2026, and it has remained a staple of my daily playlist ever since. The album is a no-frills country record that takes listeners on a journey from her Arkansas roots to the hard-earned redemption found in sobriety.
The Into the Wild Tour embraced that same authenticity. With only her longtime bandmates, a simple backdrop, and a focus on the music itself, Ashley proved that a great show doesn't require elaborate production. Over the course of a 90-minute set, she delivered 21 songs with ease, performing much of Wild while also treating fans to favorites such as "A Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega," "Sparrow," "Light on in the Kitchen," and "American Scandal."
I became a country music fan through marriage, but there is something uniquely compelling about Ashley McBryde that made me a fan in my own right. Her voice, songwriting, and honesty bring a sense of comfort in an increasingly noisy world. During one of the most difficult periods of my life, when I struggled with depression, self-worth, and the weight of other people's actions, her music became a source of strength and healing. It helped me find my footing again when I needed it most. That personal connection made this performance even more meaningful.
What stood out most throughout the evening was the atmosphere inside the venue. The crowd was fully invested in the performance, singing along while remaining respectful and attentive to every moment on stage. In an era where concertgoers often experience live music through a phone screen, it was refreshing to look around and see very few cell phones in the air. Fans were present, engaged, and genuinely connected to the music.
Ashley's storytelling between songs was engaging, often humorous, and always sincere.
Vocally, Ashley was exceptional. Her signature grit and power translated flawlessly to the live setting, bringing both energy and emotion to every song. Each performance felt genuine, reinforcing why so many fans connect so deeply with her music.
The Into the Wild Tour wasn't simply a concert. It was a reminder of the power of authenticity, storytelling, and great songwriting. Ashley McBryde continues to prove that she doesn't need flashy production or manufactured moments to captivate an audience. She does it the classic country way: with honest songs, a remarkable voice, and a genuine connection to the people who come to hear her perform.
For longtime fans and newcomers alike, it was an unforgettable evening and a testament to why Ashley McBryde remains one of country music's most compelling artists.
Thank you from one girl going nowhere to another...
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