SONGS WERE PLAYED – A Monthly Concert Recap
October 29th, 2022
Do you need more music in your life? Look no further, our seasoned gig-reviewer Aleksandra’s got you covered.
I like gigs. Like, a lot. Mostly in life I tend to feel kind of numb, or maybe it’s just that I feel AS IF I’m feeling numb,
or just can’t pinpoint feelings at particular moments in time - which makes me feel not-so-good. And subsequently, I worry that the people around me might become contaminated with the not-so-good. Gigs is where I find a physio-emotional release, followed by a resetting of sorts, making me believe it is playing a part in my becoming a more bearable person (this is my “I am the drama'' moment, it’s not that deep but just let me have it). Here are all the shows that helped me get to that place this past month. Have a scroll, read a little, or just look at the pictures. Thanks to everyone who joined me at these shows. And thanks to Alice for giving me permission to steal the picture she took of Art D’Ecco. Here’s to new friends, and becoming sufferable.
31.08.2022
OPENING ACT
Perfume Genius
To be fair, I mostly attended because of this guy, and the Amsterdam dates of his headline European tour were… not headline dates! Instead, he joined Kevin Parker for 3 consecutive nights at AFAS Live. Is there a demographic crossover? Looking around in the crowd that night, I would say, barely. But that didn’t stop me from having my fun (some girl asking me to keep my hands down and stop moving whatsoever, but it’s all water under the bridge). Even though the performance was on the shorter side, lasting under an hour, the curated setlist was a great mix of older favourites, many a cut from his most acclaimed record Set My Heart On Fire Immediately, and even a few, odd moments from his latest and most experimental album to date. The voice of Mike Hadreas permeates all space leaving you absolutely entranced, especially when combined with eclectic dance moves. As his delicate frame contorts and arches, he goes on to say “I’m gonna continue to pop my pussy for you”. And you really hope he does.
Recommended for: Those who like their pop with a bit of an edge. The kinky, but not exhibitionist. The shrinking violets looking for an excuse to let go.
MAIN ACT
Tame Impala
This was my third time seeing Kevin live, and although I expected it to be the usual good time, nothing could have prepared me for the spectacle that it was. Definitely the most ambitiously produced show I’ve seen all year. It starts with the concept – outside the venue, you are greeted by individuals dressed as representatives of a pharmaceutical company, distributing samples of their newest drug, which is meant to distort your experience of time (don’t worry, it’s a sugar pill, stop being a buzzkill and play along). Before the show begins, you are greeted with an informational video explaining the concept of The Slow Rush, briefing you on some possible side effects, and kindly asking you to take the medication and enjoy whatever’s about to happen. Then, there are the visuals - perfectly trippy and versatile, an overstimulating feast for your eyes in which colours and images blend into each other. And finally, the most impressive part of the show’s production – the lighting. Just when you’d think it can’t get any better, it takes you by surprise again. A giant light disk, rotating on two axes and in vertical movement. Lasers for days. An explosion of colour and intensity. No actual holograms, rather illusions which are pretty damn close. The music was great too, but man, what a sight it all was.
Recommended for: Those with synaesthesia. Those without synaesthesia, who’d like to get as close to experiencing it as they can. All those with or without capability of hearing. People who’ve never taken drugs, as well as those who enjoy recreational substance use.
13.09.2022
OPENING ACT
Mess Esque
Ok, feel free to be furious with me, but I don’t remember much about this one. I remember thinking it’s cool, and vibey, and that it’s the type of tunes I would enjoy listening to on a late night car ride. A friend I made there said they reminded him of Cocteau Twins. Take his word, not mine.
Recommended for: People who are into Cocteau Twins, I guess. And vibes? I’m doing a disservice here, sorry.
MAIN ACT
Kurt Vile & The Violators
Never in my life have I seen a contemporary act, let alone a singular guy, switch out so many guitars in a span of an hour and a half. I counted eleven in rotation, and I’m still probably a little off. I’m also quite sure I saw multiples of the exact same model, and don’t get me started on the pedal collection. No, really, please don’t, because I didn’t manage to get a good look. At some point, a lady yelled out “Which one’s your favourite?”. “Song?”, Kurt responded, half paying attention, half looking at his instrument. “Guitar!”, she yelled out even louder. He did not give a definitive answer. Either way, Kurt Vile is nothing but effortlessly cool. The atmosphere was incredibly laid back, as the people imbibed the witty song writing and presentation of guitar playing skill, all the while Kurt kept semi-hiding under his full head of locks.
Recommended for: People whose surfer ex-boyfriend would always mention how his taste is so much more niche then theirs. Those obsessed with the woods. Camping aficionados.
15.09.2022
OPENING ACT
Sarah Maison
French-Moroccan pop with some disco influences. A badass female bassist and a Cher lookalike (in a good way). Stunning vocal performance and big universal themes. You either dig it, or you don’t. Personally, I think it’s a breath of fresh air among pop acts. I can’t speak on studio recordings, but definitely something to check out when performed live.
Recommended for: Those longing for an old-school but chic discotheque.
MAIN ACT
Alexandra Savior
Alexandra Savior delivers modern rock that doesn’t shy away from the feminine in all its complexity – including the emotional, the dark, the seductive, and the caring. Another impressive vocal performance, delivered behind a tinsel wrapped around the microphone. An aesthetic choice for sure, but also something that feels like a safety blanket – Alexandra’s introverted, shy demeanour breaks through in glimpses. Getting flustered upon receiving gifts from fans, hiding her face, glancing at her band in moments that you can only imagine to feel positively overpowering. But it is exactly that power that drives her show, led on by the intense and mutual love that is being offered and received with full reciprocation. Also, I have to mention Mitchell Gonzales as an incredibly skilled guitarist who sometimes steals the show. Big up Gonzales. For those unaware, Savior has worked on her debut record with Alex Turner, and is the songwriter behind The Last Shadow Puppet’s hit single Miracle Aligner.
Recommended for: Queer women in love with their childhood best friends. People who experience feelings deeply and intensely. Fans of Alex Turner’s jazz club crooner era.
19.09.2022
OPENING ACT
Dan Lyon & The Tenants
Utterly British and guitar-driven (these guys were shredding). Political and anti-elitist, with some sweeter, less hot-blooded moments. Thoroughly enjoyable, and, I believe, better in person than on recordings. Curious to see where this goes. Careful though, they might keep tabs on you after the gig, iykyk.
Recommended for: (Politically) frustrated folk with a heart of gold. Those who are always looking for more British indie acts.
MAIN ACT
La Femme
If there is a lesson to be learned, it’s to always expect the unexpected. The biggest mosh pit of my life was at this show. Started by Marlon Magnée himself, as he made his way through the crowd and encouraged some ruckus, it lasted for approximately 4 songs without a break. If you are a fan of this French krautrock/psychedelic collective, do not hesitate. Possibly the best €12 I ever spent. And even if you are unaware of this bunch and their work, go anyway! I guarantee you’re going to have a good time.
Recommended for: Everyone who needs to feel a bit of a rush every now and then. People with a stable sense of self and confidence, because otherwise, seeing so many attractive, talented people, speaking with sexy French accents on top of it all just might send you spiralling. I’m just kidding (I’m totally not).
28.09.2022
OPENING ACT
Jonah Yano
Sweet, playful, jazzy. Incredibly likeable, especially sax guy (he’s so saxy. I apologise). But when joined by a sax girl? That’s when it gets even better. Doubling up on the same instrument in order for them to converse with each other gets me every damn time. Jonah himself is blessed with a voice of honey quality, and a frequent collaborator of BADBADNOTGOOD who are also featured on his upcoming record portrait of a dog. Make sure to keep an eye out, I feel like it will do great when spun in the morning time.
Recommended for: The rugged and looking for something smooth. Those who believe a little sugar in warm drinks is an undeniable pleasure which makes an immense difference in your day.
MAIN ACT
Clairo
If you read the part on La Femme, then you know to expect the unexpected – but sometimes it’s you who lights the spark. That’s why we did a mini-mosh to Sofia. No regrets. During the show, technical issues were combated, marriage proposals were put forward, and some tears were shed (guilty, I’m a weakling who cries every time she hears Harbour). Promoting her 70s inspired singer-songwriter sophomore album Sling, Cottrill brought all the charm, even asking the audience to show her pictures of their pets while performing Joanie, a track named after her pup.
Recommended for: Dog people. Or, actually, pet people in general. Those unafraid of vulnerability and seeking a warm glow to their soul.
30.09.2022
OPENING ACT
Art d’Ecco
This Canadian rocker rose up with an androgynous look of a black bob wig and heavy makeup, but on this tour (promoting his sophomore record release) he strips it all the way down - it’s all a chemical cut, suits and grooves, baby! The Bowie-inspired maximalist tunes were enhanced by d’Ecco’s and his band’s tangible stage presence, yet it’s the indie quality that adds charm to the whole thing. The grandeur of sound juxtaposed with a singular setlist, hand-written with black sharpie on a torn-off piece of paper. A nameless* fantasy of glam and self-mythization.
Recommended for: Cheeky bikers with an affinity for twinks, old show queens who like greasers. Anyone who loves Bowie. Anyone who hates Bowie (if you exist). All the outcasts who like to tap their feet and sway their hips.
*d’Ecco’s real identity has remained hidden.
MAIN ACT
Blossoms
I’ve got to be honest here - this was my poser hour. Sometimes, you gotta hog the front of the stage while having learnt the songs hours before, if ever, and have the time of your life doing it. Especially with a band like Blossoms, five pop-rocking Brits led by Tom Ogden. The mystery of the evening? Whether the band’s become Gucci ambassadors. And I don’t mean patterns and excess Gucci, I mean all-black, gold detailing, way-overpriced simplicity Gucci. Either way, it definitely fits the lead’s delivery, with occasional flamboyant dance moves, eye rolls, and offhand attitude. As a friend of mine put it - classy, sassy, and a bit bad-assy. For the music part.. It's alright. Don’t expect anything ground-breaking, but if you’re looking for a night of catchy songs which you can groove to, you’ll do just fine with these guys (I actually had loads of fun).
Recommended for: Everyone who’s still stuck in the late 2000’s to early 2010’s British pop-rock era (that’s me, I’ve never left). But if you mind Englishmen in the audience spilling beer all over you during the last song, stick to the back. Or like me, to the very front.
09.10.2022
OPENING ACT
BROCKHOFF
This felt like Phoebe Bridgers inserted into the 90s. A little reminiscent of Mazzy Star at times. I was a little occupied with my mom, who joined me for this and the three acts that follow. She actually saw them twice, and didn’t really like it. I tried explaining some cultural contexts and providing reference points in order to persuade her it’s definitely far from the worst opening acts out there. Like, by more than a mile. She wasn’t convinced.
Recommended for: Sad girls, sad boys, sad non-binary people, sad beings. People who have experienced dreams of losing their teeth.
MAIN ACT
Paolo Nutini
My mom is probably the biggest Paolo Nutini fan out there. This should have given me a hint about the demographic of his music. Trust me, I have a lot of love for Paolo, but the kind of love middle aged women have for him is just different. Maybe there is some threshold, and once you celebrate a particular birthday it just switches something in you to make his work resonate deeper. Whatever the case, this man is incredibly impressive. Tickets to both shows in Amsterdam sold out in approximately 60 seconds. We only managed to get ours from the waiting lists, and because one lady was selling spares outside the venue. I feel some envy towards my mom, as it’s something that seems best experienced twice. Because the first time, you are filled with disbelief that it is actually unfolding right in front of you. That his voice is not a recording, but that it’s actually his vocal chords and the sound that resonates through his whole body right then and there. Additionally, I can count on one hand the times I saw an artist be so attentive and giving to the crowd – no matter how minor the cue, it is graced with a response or an interaction. There is a general aura of kindness and gratitude, which is rare to find in artists of this scale. There’s only one epithet for it. Stunning.
Recommended for: People of all ages. I can’t find anything more particular for this one. It is hard, but if you manage to get a spot, definitely give it a go.
10.10.2022
OPENING ACT
POF
Young Dutch band with a punk tradition. Structurally and sonically, I found it a little tedious. However, you cannot deny the energy of their lead singer. This girl is almost animalistic on the stage, captivating and truly mesmerising. My mom loved it. I trust her more than I trust myself, so maybe you should too.
Recommended for: Whoever feels like embracing the wild for a brief moment in time. Those tired of screaming into pillows.
MAIN ACT
Surf Curse
I was mostly familiar with Nick Rattigan from his other project, Current Joys, but if you’re active on the internet there is no way you missed the sensation caused by Surf Curse’s single, Freaks. I would say Rattigan is like Phil Collins on speed. It’s garage, it’s surf rock, it’s great fun. Again, my mom loved it, but this time I think even my dad would too.
Recommended for: Kids who feel misunderstood, or performatively deploy that feeling. No judgement here, we’ve all done it (I think). People who wish Phil Collins would go a bit harder, or at least hadn’t grown old yet.
*This is not a dig at Phil Collins, I promise!
12.10.2022
Brian Jonestown Massacre
You don’t get a picture here. This was my first time feeling legitimately afraid to pull out my phone during the show and to point it at these guys, conditioned by my viewing of the 2003 award-winning documentary about them called Dig!, recommended to me by a friend as an intro point to their catalogue. I expected a fight to break out, I expected lack of synchronisation because of the historically tense dynamics among the band members. What I got was surprisingly coherent, mutually supportive, and even a bit silly, as they cracked jokes to each other in-between songs. I have to say, Anton does take his time in those moments of pause. At some point the guitarist came up to the crowd and casually said that he himself didn’t even know why they hadn’t started playing the next track yet. This was a night of firsts, apparently, as we witnessed Paradiso turn into a smoke chamber – with Anton chain smoking, which followed with the crowd chain smoking, which followed with the rest of the band enjoying a cigarette or two. Eyes were watering. The last of firsts? It being the very first show that I had to leave early, out of genuine worry that I might not make it to the last train for the night that was heading in my direction. The band started 20 minutes late, and we were hitting hour 3 of the performance. Still, it was like nothing I’ve ever seen before, and I highly appreciated the opportunity to see the OG 60s revivalist in action.
Recommended for: People who miss the days of being wild, young, and free. Maybe those with a slightly inflated sense of self. Definitely dads.
