Date of show: June 7, 2011
Brooklyn-based Yeasayer had the sold out crowd at the Phoenix riveted by their set. The anticipation for the headliner to hit the stage was in the air and when band opened up with “Madder Red,” the energy from the crowd swelled. Songs like “O.N.E.” encouraged a dance party and there were many singing along.
When I moved from the crowd on the floor to the balcony, I was better able to appreciate the great lightshow put together, with strobes and varying imagery projected onto light screens behind the band. This added to the atmosphere, accompanying a healthy balance of electro and psychedelia. Surely, Yeasayer have learned in their heavy touring schedule since the release of Odd Blood how to put together a complete and interesting show.
As the band finishes out touring Odd Blood and is set to begin recording a new album, Yeasayer treated the audience to the debut of two new songs within their set of favourites from All Hour Cymbals and Odd Blood. The band ended their set with “Ambling Amp,” another song that had the crowd singing along. Screams brought out the band for a 2-song encore and as the band got back on stage, they said, “Encores are kinds stupid, right? I don’t think they’re very cool, but this is a sold out show and you guys are awesome.” The screams didn’t stop as Yeasayer ended their visit to Toronto with “2080.”
As Yeasayer goes back to the studio, I can expect that fans are eagerly awaiting a follow-up to two great albums. Based on what was heard at the Phoenix, the band still has more hits up their sleeves.
While the vocals were buried quite a bit and somewhat inaudible, Smith Westerns’ sunny, psychedelic sounds are particularly highlighted by exceptional guitar skills. The crowd was not exceptionally responsive, though, as it seems most of the crowd was just eager for Yeasayer to get on stage.
Hush Hush was a special treat to those who arrived early, providing amazing beats and questionable lyrics. A fascinating performer, Hush Hush created the most explicit and awkward dance party I have ever been to. I mean that in the best way, though. There was laughter from the crowd and many didn’t know how to react at first, but many of those close to stage couldn’t help but dance and stare at the stage in awe. It was an amazing way to kick off the night.
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