Playing a continuous string of notoriously energetic shows after releasing a new album earlier this past February, The Districts have been gaining a rapid amount of attention as one of the exciting new rock acts of the year. Last Wednesday, the Pennsylvania-based band took the stage at Music Hall of Williamsburg for their first of two consecutive nights at the venue.
Which such a confident command of their music, it’s really hard to believe these four young men have only recently exited their teenage years. They just flat out rocked the place, pouring themselves into each and every note. Their songs were sprinkled with hints of blues, folk, and Americana, with lead singer Rob Grote occasionally pulling out a harmonica.
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The Districts’ hour-long set was heavy on material from their latest album, A Flourish and a Spoil, but also featured fan favorites such as “Funeral Beds” and “Long Distance,” which helped them initially gain popularity. Grote is a mesmerizing performer, catching his audience off guard with gritty, mature-sounding vocals, despite his youthful appearance. His voice transitions between quietly vulnerable and manically unleashed emotion and he does both equally well.
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“Young Blood,” The Districts’ encore song of choice, was definitely a standout moment from the show. It’s a lengthy track that starts off at a trotting pace, rapidly gaining momentum as it progresses, before finishing in a frenzied jam. The band’s onstage energy was contagious, the crowd jumping in rhythm with their instrumental attack. As the band exited the stage for the final time, audience joined in singing “Happy Birthday” to guitarist Pat Cassidy, friends carrying him off the stage as if he was attending a royal parade.
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The Districts definitely didn’t disappoint, powering through each song with a seemingly endless supply of energy. Their live show leaves quite an impression and much for audience to look forward to from this young, new band.
Article: Nicole Shyti
