by Matt Kelchner
Fresh off the release of their latest album, Racy, synth rockers Hooray for Earth kicked off their current tour at the Underground Arts here in Philadelphia on Tuesday. In the depths of a new, yet to be finished section of the young venue the New York four piece were joined by fellow tourmates Grooms and locals Night Panther. Grooms used their time on stage to also show off some of their new tunes and Night Panther were working under a newer lineup. In a night full of new music and sounds, Hooray for Earth reigned supreme.
First up for the night was Night Panther. Spread amongst the four members on stage were numerous synths and other electronics that would be tinkered with and played throughout the night. With a redefined sound that is different from their early days of sultry, late-night disco, Night Panther have shaped things into a more polished sound reminiscent of M83. Layers of synthesizer decorated each song to give a full and complete sound. While there were a few hiccups along the performance, Night Panther still showed why they are one of Philadelphia’ hottest up and coming locals.
Night Panther
Photo by: Matt Kelchner
Night Panther
Photo by: Matt Kelchner
For as elaborate as Night Panther’s setup was, Grooms had the exact opposite. Performing as a three piece, it was just a drummer and two guitarists (albeit one on a baritone guitar) on stage. The experimental noise group demonstrated the wide ranged, genre-bended sound that they have become known for. Much of Grooms set was comprised of new material but they were able to fit in a few older songs such as “Very Very Librarian”. Another stark difference between the two opening bands was the level of energy behind the performances. Whereas Night Panther was a bit more subdued and mellow to reflect the smoothness of their music, there was a harsh, loud edge to Grooms. It took the members of the audience who were not familiar with the band by surprise.
Grooms
Photo by: Matt Kelchner
Grooms
Photo by: Matt Kelchner
In the musical range for the night, Hooray for Earth well almost exactly in the middle between the two acts opening for them. They coupled the walls of synths from Night Panther with the heaviness from Grooms into a mix that would fit perfectly for the crowd. For the band’s first show in what they recalled as 2-3 weeks, they did not miss a beat. Singer Noel Heroux’s voice cut right through every song in it’s own unique sound that ranged from near falsetto highs to much bassier depths.
Hooray for Earth
Photo by: Matt Kelchner
The new songs from Hooray for Earth’s latest album, Racy, took an interesting yet well received transition into the live setting. Each one took more of a rock and roll feel to it despite plenty amount of synthesizer found on the record. The change in tone added to the lively and heartfelt energy pouring out of the band. Songs like the title track from the new album, “Racy” and other gems had not only Heroux and company moving, but the crowd as well. All the while their touring visuals guy, Aaron from meetyourbeat.com, was providing a live feed of the band’s performance thrown into a custom rig that ended up displaying the most beautiful and colorful video feedback I’ve ever seen.
Hooray for Earth
Photo by: Matt Kelchner
Hooray for Earth
Photo by: Matt Kelchner
As the night came to a close and Hooray for Earth’s members began hinting that it was the end, the crowd roared for more. And they gave it to them. Twice. Nothing shows support from your fans like them screaming to have more songs played. At the same time, the band gave them exactly what they want. Not once, but twice! It takes a special kind of devotion for a band to treat their fans in that way and it makes that valuable bond even stronger. Other bands should take note here, when your fans are shouting for more at the end of the night, give’em more!
