Every now and then you see a band and say to yourself--"I will see this band every chance I get". Devotchka is one of those bands, the only difference is...I have done what I said I would do, and caught them every time they have performed in Philly.
I saw them live @ the Northstar Bar opening for M. Ward and then a year or two later headlining the Northstar and for this show they headlined the TLA.
Few bands capture the passion and energy like Devotchka does. This band, when performing is having fun.
Romani, Greek, Slavic, Gypsy, Indie, Bolero, Mariachi, Punk and the list goes on when describing Devotchka's sound. Frankly, I think they have a polka infused rock sound that stretches across Americana and I would describe them as an amazing crowd pleasing wedding/party band if ever there was one.
For the first time Devotchka toured with a more elaborate stage set-up utilizing Day of the Dead type props and by having the opening band's musicians join them for various songs throughout the evening.
If you should have the opportunity to catch them live, prior to the start of the show, start counting the instruments that the four main members will use for their performance, I did once, and the count was 26 different instruments including their trademark banana shaker.
Enough of the background. Nick's passion and Tom's no nonsense approach to music coupled with Jeanie's effervescent smile and Shawn's boy next door attitude and look bring their individual talents forth combining for a melodic enchanting musical parade.
Musical highlights were the song Clockwork Witness which is just a beautifully arranged song, the background base of keyboard will stay with you for days. The remaining set-list was well executed and included some crowd favorites.
The first encore was further evidence of Devotchka's comfort and expansion of the concert experience as they unveiled a giant curtain that fell center stage and a most beautiful young girl (devotchka translated means--young girl) appeared and proceeded to climb the curtain and perform acrobatically before the crowd as the band played. Having read of Devotchka's history this seems typical of their hometown Denver performances that is now bleeding into their touring shows.
Devotchka is a music lovers dream, catch them live.
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