METRONOMY KEEPS PERFECT TIME AT IRVING PLAZA

In May, Metronomy performed at the Paradise Rock Club in Boston. The whole band was dressed in white, playing the hits off their latest album Love Letters, and bass player Olugbenga Adelekan stole the show with his dance moves. Flash forward to Thursday night. Metronomy played Irving Plaza, and even though everyone was still in white playing Love Letters’ hits and Adelekan’s feet were taking him all over the stage at astonishing rates, something was different. The band had reached an equilibrium.

Metronomy’s performance at Irving Plaza truly showcased the talents of each member. Perhaps this is due to the fact that they have played over 100 shows in 2014 so far, with more scheduled in upcoming months, but on Thursday night, Metronomy demonstrated an understanding of each others’ fortes by allowing each other moments to shine. As a band, they have managed to reach a balance on stage that is both endearing and inspiring.

Dawn Golden, the electronic soloist opener, livened the crowd with a variety of dance mashups featuring old time recordings and songs such as Ave Maria. By the time Metronomy took the stage, their faithful followers had flooded the venue. Among some of the hits they played were “Reservoir,” “I’m Aquarius,” “The Upsetter,” and the impressive and entirely instrumental “Boy Racers.” Anna Prior also sang “Everything Goes My Way” while pulling off an all-white pantsuit and keeping time on the drums.

If Metronomy doesn’t win you over with their British accents and indie-pop dance tunes, their fans might do it for them. One fan in particular started – however unsuccessfully – a wave, and then proceeded – successfully – to rally everyone in the front section of the crowd to dance harder, cheer louder, and take as many pictures of the band as their smartphones would allow. It was cellular pandemonium.

But more than that, the enthusiasm and positive response of the crowd is an indicator that the band is continuing to do well by its fans. Having reached a state of musical equilibrium, Metronomy is sitting pretty. They have just a few months left of touring, so catch them before they cross back over the pond.

Article by: Alexa Tietjen

Photos by: Shayne Hanley