THE 1975 TAKE NO SHORTCUTS AT TERMINAL 5

I’m going to say this outright; I don’t know much, if anything about The 1975. I couldn’t name one song or band member if pressed and think they’re most likely from England? Normally, I’d take the time to research a band to make it seem I’m not an idiot about the subject before writing. Well, today…I am that idiot. I wont pretend I know any more than what I heard and saw at Terminal 5 on Saturday night.

What I have learned is this; The 1975 fans are a rabid bunch, in the best way possible. The earliest fans arrived before 4AM to get front row center, taking naps on the sidewalk and ordering pizza throughout the day to survive a brisk day on 57th street. When inside, they crushed against the rail, forgetting the friends they made that day in order to get just a little bit closer to their heroes/crushes. A few young ladies had to be taken out of the crowd mere moments before The 1975 even took to the stage – whether it was exhaustion or the fact there ribs were probably being crushed, the looks on their faces said it all, they weren’t meant to see their favorite band up close, not on this night at least.

Merch

As soon as the lights dimmed and the intro music started the phones went up. Not just a handful of phones, but literally thousands. It was a bit concerning really, I’ve never seen anything like it. As the phones went up, a screeching noise slowly started building, like some weird jet engine filled with teenage tears. The screeching would gradually build until it felt like a thousand Gilda Radner’s were screaming in my ear (hey kids, Google Gilda Radner). At that moment I think I now know what The Beatles felt like so many years ago across town – a bit scared and impressed, all at the same time.

Phone check!

The 1975

1975

When the four young lads strode out all shit broke loose, complete with tears and makeup streaming down faces. The quartet then broke into “Love Me,” which was really fantastic and upbeat. Following was “Heart Out” and “Settle Down” and had everyone in attendance singing along to every word. Before the fourth song, Lead singer Matt Healy beckoned everyone on the floor to take three steps back, as he could plainly see that the crush at the rail was too much to handle. When the crowd didn’t comply he got pissed and nearly screamed “If y’all don’t stop pushing each other I’ll get in there and push you…love each other, hug each other, make friends,” he implored. Well, Matt – telling thousands of teenage girls that you’ll get in the crowd if they don’t stop pushing, may of been the wrong choice of words, as that’s kinda what they want.

1975

These kids sure love em

The 1975

1975

The 1975

The band was firing on all cylinders, very tight and very energetic, which to me is the sign of a solid band. While the music isn’t my style, I could see why so many choose to call them their favorite band. With their rather impressive stage setup and massive lights, The 1975 hammered down with “She’s American” and “Girls” which wrapped up the main set. The encore was tremendous and the show ended with rousing versions of “Chocolate” and “Sex.” For all those who attended it was a magical night, full of emotion and dancing. I might even download one of their albums now, their live show was that good.