So many admirable musicians are impressing with the electric guitar these days, but few seem to wield it with the curative power and determination of Steve Marion.

The New Jersey native’s credited on a long list of notable records dating back to the early 2010s, and that includes collaborations with the likes of Paul Simon and playing with The Black Keys. But he’s best known these days by his studio and stage moniker, Delicate Steve, and as this transfixing character he’s proving himself to be rising star of a guitarist.

Marion assumed the identity back in 2011. Since then, he’s won over listeners far and wide with his intentional, inviting style of play and the exuberance he puts into every note. Delicate Steve’s released seven studio albums, growing his reputation by way of incredible compositions and some fantastic interpretations, too.

He’s been out on the road promoting his latest record, Delicate Steve Sings, which of course hears not a word from his mouth but presents another fresh batch of fetching, precise rock tunes that, along with the rest of his albums, will stand the test of time.

Listen to the latest album from Delicate Steve, Delicate Steve Sings, via Spotify:

Making a stop in the nation’s capital, Delicate Steve sold out Songbyrd Music House the night of Oct. 12, astounding a boisterous crowd with a setlist from across his catalogue but front-loaded with some of the early favorites from his newest release: “I’ll Be There,” “Baby,” and “Easy For You.”

Backed by keyboardist Eric Lane and drummer David Christian, Steve dazzled with his creamy white Fender Stratocaster, moving his limber body as he went and pronouncing notes and chords with remarkable detail.

Like the greatest guitar legends, Delicate Steve clearly forms a spiritual bond with his instrument. It’s a magnetism that transfixed everyone in the room last Saturday night. He’d throw his head back, bend at the knees, and lean way down over his assortment of pedals or maybe grab his glass slide. He’d come out of it for a moment, a grin of approval flashed to his mates.

By infusing so much emotion into his play, his songs become powerful statements, even without lyrics. Steve offered little in the form of conversation at Songbyrd, but by featuring some of the most compelling tracks from his earlier recordings, he convincingly showcased his range and incredible skills.

Listen to Delicate Steve’s 2022 studio album, After Hours, via Spotify:

Fans were treated to “Tattered” from his 2017 EP Cowboy Stories along with the medicinal title track from 2012’s Positive Force. They heard Steve’s gorgeous new take on The Beatles classic “Yesterday,” and they enjoyed more of the tunes that have helped define his sound thus far, like the intrepid “Playing in a Band” from 2022’s After Hours and the punchy “Winners” recorded to his 2017 Anti- Records premiere, This is Steve.

When all was said and done, patrons at Songbyrd followed Steve’s orders and made their way to the merch table and formed a long line. They bought records and T-shirts, and they shook his hand and wished him the best, knowing damn well he’s destined for bigger stages.

Delicate Steve Setlist

I’ll Be There
Baby
Easy For You
Tattered
Positive Force
Tallest Heights
Looking Glass
Roads
Yesterday
Playing in a Band
Peaches
Lonesome
Winners
Wally Wilder
Flyin High
Butterfly

Below are home-rolled/developed/scanned 35mm movie film shots of Delicate Steve along with opening act Katy Pinke performing at Songbyrd Music House in Washington DC the night of Oct. 12, 2024. All images copyright and courtesy of Casey Ryan Vock.

Delicate Steve

Katy Pinke