So I went to the Phoenix show last night at the Wiltern. I was especially excited because I had never seen them live before but had heard only great things. The opening band was called "The Amazing Babies". They were neither amazing or babies. Either of those things would have helped their cause. I am not sure how they got a slot opening for one of the best bands going today. They seemed a slight bit angsty and way too droning to be playing with someone like Phoenix.
There seemed to be a plethora of the indie crowds finest in attendance including some people I recognized from work. I also ran into a long shanked and hooded Zac Efron of High School Musical fame which was weird.
We managed to finagle our way into the front pit area which was AWESOME. Thanks to my friend Kate and her unrelenting attack on the pit guy Dave. It wasn't crowded down there at all and we all had room to have a major dance party. They came on for an encore and ended with "1901". Their set was tight and full of energy. At one point the lead singer Thomas Mars came into the crowd right next to us as he sang " Falllin, Fallinnnn, Fallinnnnn". I tried to snap a picture while he was in the crowd but the camera on my phone does not focus fast enough. I did manage to snap this one to the left though. You can see how close we were!
As the show finished the energy in the crowd was still palpable. Throughout the performance the lights would turn towards the crowd and illuminate us. I would turn around and see everyone's faces full of pure joy. Seeing everyone smiling and dancing filled your chest with such a good feeling.
There was also the extended dance party after Phoenix left the stage as Michael Jackson started bumping from the speakers. People lingered after to dance around and do their best MJ imitations. It was a cherry on top of what was already an amazing night.
I really cannot wait to see Phoenix again. It's one of those bands you see once and know you are going to keep seeing them again and again.
Listen to a couple of my favorite remixed Phoenix songs !!!!!
