Tuesday 26 February 2013

#94


Last night, something pretty damn cool went down. Walk The Moon, a four member band from Ohio came to the Thekla, in Bristol, to do a gig. I WAS THERE. 


By the time the indie pop/rock music moguls graced the eager crowd with their presence (luminous face paint, check) every fan in the building was more than ready to sing, dance, throw themselves around and generally express every last bit of emotion they had to offer. This was of course helped along by lead singer Nicholas Petricca, as he began a sensual and very physical demonstration of letting the "bad shit" go, which involved a bit of 'heart' grabbing (picture him gripping his Pecs with full force!), a bit of swirling of the arms and a climax; every single person throwing their hands to the ceiling and wiggling their fingers ferociously. All this, to ensure that the crowd, for at least one hour, could feel free and happy. Don't get a therapist; Walk The Moon will do the same job for less money.




As the set progressed, the atmosphere kept building in intensity and wildness. However none of this stopped the crowd from entering a trance like state when the band played their ballad, 'Iscariot'. I am yet to work out the true meaning of this song, for it is not a typical slow long about romantic affairs. The song speaks of a 'friend' and 'brother' often, as well as mentioning death, trust, and the fate we create for ourselves. It was this song which really gave Nick the chance to shine vocally. The mellow music allowed his voice to echo around the venue like a religious chant, and his remarkable talent became impossible to ignore. It's also imperative not to ignore the talent of every other member of the band, all capable of playing instruments other than their chosen ones, and all with valuable singing skills which create harmonious and enchanting backing vocals. Watching Nicholas and Kevin move from vocals, to keyboard, to guitar, to bass, to drums, to the tambourine was a humbling experience, and one that would be sure to make you quite envious of the musical talent these boys possess.

The rest of the set was a frenzy of head bopping, jumping, clapping and dancing, with bassist Kevin bringing arguably the most energy to the stage with his undeniably sexual thrusting, tongue sticking out and leopard print leggings. At one point, the crowd were offered the microphone and sang an entire verse by themselves, surprisingly in tune as well. The band's faces lit up in awe at this moment, and it became apparent how happy they truly were to be with us, on a boat, sharing their music. If their happiness could not infect you simply from listening to the album, I'd tell you to watch their YouTube videos, and if you were still at a loss I'd prescribe attending a Walk The Moon gig immediately. I do not believe even the most angst-full of teenagers could resist this bands live energy.















Credit must also be given to the two support acts who kept the crowd entertained for almost two hours; The Rubens and another band who I honestly have no idea who they were (I think they were called MD but I can't find a website, YouTube or twitter page for them) but if I find out I'll let you know because they had hair similar to a tumblr girls', moustaches that would put Brendan Brady to shame and chest hair that could rival King Kong. Their edgy rock got the crowd going and injected some well needed 'cool' into my dull student life.






Despite not being able to stay to meet the band *sob* Walk The Moon, their support acts and the Thekla put on an incredible night that I don't think anyone wanted to end. I would describe Walk The Moon as happiness personified and I hope to God (being the atheist I am) that it is not long before the boys come back to the UK for another reviving night of perfection.
x