When I first saw this show announced, I had mini-orgasm at the line-up. I had never listened to Future Islands before but the thought of Okkervil River and the almighty Titus Andronicus on the same bill was enough to make my shorts sticky.
I showed up early to catch Future Islands' set and was very impressed with both their sound and energy. Their sound can be likened to fellow electronic artists like Gang Gang Dance or even Passion Pit but with one huge difference; the vocals. Sam Herring's deep growl wouldn't be out of place in a hardcore band but it seamlessly blends with the music as he hops around the stage thumping his chest and slapping his face to the beat.
I was really curious about seeing Titus in this sort of scenario. Every time I had seen them in the past, they were the headliner in a much smaller venue. I wasn't quite sure what to expect from their set or the crowd given that most people were there to see Okkervil River. Needless to say, Titus brought the house down and definitely gained quite a few new fans (at least my friends Bryant & Odin).
With Okkervil River, just having released their new album
I Am Very Far, I was expecting a set full of new tracks but there were only 6 including albums highlights "Wake and Be Fine" and "The Valley". The rest of the set was full of fan favorites from previous albums
Black Sheep Boy, The Stage Names and
The Stand-Ins. The crowd was into it, the band was energetic and everyone was clapping and singing along. An all around great performance worthy of your attendance.
For Titus Andronicus' (short but sweet) and Okkervil River' set lists, Future Islands' video for Tin Man and the rest of the dates for this tour keep reading.
