Sylvan Esso
One year ago, Sylvan Esso was gearing up to perform at the massive musical extravaganza that is Lollapalooza. Cut to present time, the duo sold-out not one, but two headlining performances in Chicago thanks to an ever-growing, always-dedicated fan base that just can’t get enough of their evocative sound.
“You guys are so much fun,” said Sylvan Esso vocalist – and real-life dance machine – Amelia Meath near the end of the duo’s packed show at the Riviera Theatre on July 23. Analog wizard, producer Nick Sanborn, added, “Guys, it’s Monday night,” marveling at the energy exuding from the crowd.
From the initial rugged beats of “Dreamy Bruises” – which followed a delicately patient prelude of “Sound” – fans lost themselves in the movement and the music as Meath and Sanborn curated a journey of rhythms and melodies. “Die Young,” a beautiful song of eternal love, was sweeping in its pull while “Kick Jump Twist” found Meath commanding aerobic levels of participation as she embodied the lyrics of the What Now hit.
Sylvan Esso
The 8-bit ballad “Jaimie’s Song” transitioned nicely into the juddering cadence of “The Glow,” converting fans into a mob of motion while “Just Dancing” and “Coffee” generated some of the best sing-along moments of the night. The purposeful perpetual rhythm of the duo’s 2018 single “PARAD(w/m)E” fit nicely into the setlist and offered a glimpse at (sure to be) good things to come. Even the show’s opener Collections of Colonies of Bees – who delivered an artistic, intelligent and complex set earlier in the night – could be seen dancing along in the balcony.
Sylvan Esso
At times, Meath added a slight growl to her pristine vocals creating intensity on tracks like “Hey Mami,” “H.S.K.T.” and “Radio.” Sanborn – focused on making the magic of sound manipulation – was often glued to his gear and when he broke away, after dropping an especially gnarly groove, he was met with cheers of appreciation for creating such infatuating compositions.
Sylvan Esso
There’s power in numbers. There’s strength in the pack. And when Meath led fans in a collective howl – prior to performing “Wolf” – all was right in the world. Sylvan Esso helped everyone forget about the chaos outside, get lost in the moment and become part of a community driven by a shared love of music. It was beautiful.
Check out photos from Sylvan Esso’s July 23 show at The Riviera Theatre above and head over to www.sylvanesso.com to learn more about their 2018 Summer Tour.
(Photos by Laurie Fanelli)