At one point during a particularly quiet and reflective song, I looked around and realized that not a single person in the entire venue was making any sort of disturbance. Everyone was focused on Coulton, and if they weren't, they were at least quiet about it. It is rare to see a solo performer with that kind of stage presence or fan base. I have been to a number of "listening rooms" to hear acoustic performers and rarely have I experienced that kind of intensely focused and engaged audience.
The end of the show was a bit disappointing because it was apparent that both Coulton and the crowd would have liked for the show to go on longer, 
but the Tractor had another band booked for the late show. When he came out for a brief encore, he asked what he should play. Requests were shouted from all corners of the room, including my own, but unfortunately he did not choose my request ("Ikea"). In spite of that, I left the venue feeling satisfied and pleased with how the evening had turned out.
My only complaint is that the Tractor Tavern was too small for the turnout. I hope that the next time Coulton plays in Seattle, it will be at a larger venue with more seats.
One front-row fan caught most of the show on video, which is available on YouTube. All of his songs can be streamed from his website, as well as downloaded and purchased (a few are free), so do check them out. If Jonathan Coulton ever plays to your town, I promise it will be a show you won't want to miss. Just make sure to get to the venue early.
photos by Chris Blakeley because mine were not so good
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