December 15th - Portland, OR
Portland's own Les Gold kicked off Franz Ferdinand's set for 94.7's "December To Remember." The band came out ready to show the Crystal Ballroom a good time, clad in fun outfits and bright spirits. They opened up with "Motherboard," a smooth and lively song that gave the audience a glimpse of their surfy, indie-rock sound.
Frontman Jenson Tuomi was electric on stage; his energy was infectious, and certainly carried over to the way the crowd was receiving their music. Fan favorite "Silver Platters" was a wonderful track to get to hear live. Both guitarists, Tim Kaye and Pete Abraham, made this one shine with their delicious melodies. "Wahoo" really let their surf-rock roots shine. With the catchiest chorus and danceable rhythm, it brought the crowd together.
"No Fun" was made charismatic with its quick drumming, done by Alexander Geiszler, and soft melody, another that makes me want to float away on a warm day with a margarita in my hand. This performace not only showed how wonderfully they perform, but how incredible their recorded music sounds live. Every member of the band had an equal part in the success of each song; their dynamic on-stage was full of ease and confidence.
The crowd even got to hear an unreleased track titled "Speed Traps," a track made deliciously alive through the work of bass player Jake Jarvis, and the thorough balance between the other instruments. Unreleased songs are always fun because it feels like a little secret between the artist and crowd, something small that makes the memory of their performance feel more significant, because they got something others didn't.
"Cold Hawaii" is a personal favorite, and another exciting one to hear live. I found myself swaying along with the music without even realizing I was, that's just the effect it has. You can't help but feel good when they're wooing you with playful and upbeat songs. They closed out their set with "Sad But True," a beautiful track that really let the vocal abilities of Tuomi shine.
I love seeing local bands on a bigger stage with a platform that they deserve. Les Gold absolutely rocked it and their set made for the perfect opening to a lovely night. Portland is filled with talented musicians, and to see a local band open for such a big show was heartwarming as an Oregonian. Be sure to catch them live if you can!
Comments