These kids sure know how to party.
Misterwives were meant to lead the ultimate belting, bouncing dance party. The moment the alt-pop stars leapt on the State Theatre stage, every pulsated beat reverberated from the speakers and rippled into the crowd. The New York alt-posters had one mission: make the best memories in honor of “The Scrapbook Tour.”
Funky fun matched with positive vibes are the essence of Misterwives, especially when grinding out confidence-inspiring “Hurricane.” The songs from the band’s debut full-length, Our Own House, are catchy, striking songs that demonstrate the true range of this up-and-coming act. Just try to resist the bouncing pump in “Reflections.”
Singer Mandy Lee packs energy into her stage presence with pixie magic, dashing from one end of the stage to another with giggling theatrics. Her voice is larger than life, and her even tones while catapulting across the stage for “Imagination Infatuation” showcased her abilities as a passionate performer.
With a steady build up with “Our Own House,” Lee led in with soulful croons, but it’s the horn explosion that blasted the crowd into ecstasy. Her bandmates echoed the sentiment: guitarist Marc Campbell and bassist William Heihr leapt with equal vitality throughout the entire set.
As peppy performers, Misterwives showcased the raw talents of each member: saxophonist Mike Murphy and multi-instrumentalist Jesse Blum stole the stage during solo performances, highlighting each musician’s unique abilities brought to the stage. The sax gave a heavy nod to 80s pop, especially when grinding out Whitney Houston hit “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” and Michael Jackson favorite “PYT.”
Stealing my night was WATERS, a California pop rock band that screamed energy and captured my nostalgic heart. They’re comparable to Something Corporate with a modern flavor blending, at times reminiscent of Keane in dreamy “Up Up Up.” They belong on tour with Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness, and I’m certain Andy would catch the same rushing fever.
With WATERS stomping a full-frontal assault at the center stage, I found myself intoxicated by a song I had previously loathed. As soon as frontman Van Pierszalowski began to strum out the familiar crescendo of “Wrecking Ball,” I had a sudden change of heart. I’m no fan of Miley Cyrus, but the built up tension and release in the rocking ballad suddenly was… brilliant?! Miley, WHAT’S GOOD?!
Philadelphia sweeties Cruisr opened the night with the kind of energy I’d describe as a cross between Red Bull and Monster. Title hit “Throw Shade” belts out a cheerful screw you to the jerks in your life. Indie pop with a hint of surf rock, it’s the kind of positive “fuck it” vibes that are so damn addictive.
With so many brilliant moments tucked in one evening, there’s a good chance I’ll be adding Misterwives to my personal scrapbook of shows.
Misterwives Live Review & Concert Photos Amanda Starling, edited by Matthew Weller.
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