When I reviewed Radiation City’s newest effort Animals in the Median, I really liked it. So, it’s a true testament to the excellence of their live show that these songs sound even better performed in person. The group focuses an incredible amount of energy on recreating their dense and multi-faceted songs live, which is no easy feat. As I talked with them before their show, several members discussed which tour stop might afford an extra hour where they could squeeze in a practice session. It’s this level of commitment and professionalism that makes Radiation City’s live show so captivating and solid.
Most of the tracks off the new album made the setlist, including excellent tropicalia-informed pop numbers “Summer Rain” and “Foreign Bodies” and the more challenging and technical “Entropia” and “Buckminsterfullerene.” The individual band members come across as both relaxed and carefully attentive onstage, engrossed in their own groove. Lizzie Ellison sings with obvious emotion and power as most of the band provides background vocals intermittently.
On a Tuesday night, the crowd inside Mohawk impressively filled the room and concertgoers cheered wildly, incredibly enthusiastic about the band’s performance. Spies and Ellison cautiously remarked that “[the show]…might be… the best… on tour so far…” with genuine, awestruck eyes, clearly not wanting to speak too soon on what was clearly shaping up to be an absolutely electric evening. We can’t recommend this band enough—so, get their new album here, and keep an eye out here for when the band is playing your town.
Earlier in the evening, Austin’s Feverbones played an excellent set of mellow, folk-tinged indie-rock. Sharing members with Dana Falconberry’s stellar band, Feverbones’ musicians are impeccable, and the arrangements sound full, even as a three-piece. The songwriting triumphs, and it’s easy to see how Feverbones is quickly becoming a coveted band to fill out a bill.
Opening the night, Hello Caller played a set of orchestral, refined yet brazen pop that blends beautiful, traditional sounds with contrasting and modern and emotive vocal stylings. A bill this strong rarely sees a Tuesday night at the Mohawk, so it’s no wonder that Austin came out to witness. We’re hoping to see all of these bands again soon.
All photos © Bryan Parker & Pop Press International. Click any image to open in slideshow viewer.
