Archy Marshall, better known by his stage name King Krule, played a sold-out show at the Rock and Roll Hotel on Dec. 6.
Once the audience packed into the main stage area, Canadian indie rock outfit Tops came on stage to play. Their performance was well received with the beautiful blonde lead singer captivating nearly everyone in the crowd with her dreamy, reverb-laced voice. The band’s fun attitude and clean musicianship caught the attention of many who were at first skeptical.
When Tops finished their set, more people filled the room as the stage was prepared for King Krule. After a decent wait, he was met with deafening cheers from the audience as he and his band, all dressed in ill-fitting suits like high-schoolers headed to prom, took the stage.
King Krule’s set was flawless with every song transitioning perfectly and met with cheers and applause. Whether it was blue illuminating him as he soulfully serenaded the crown or vibrant red dancing across stage while his band jammed with energy, the lighting perfectly set the mood for each song.
While listening to Krule’s music on record is an experience in itself, his live translation was a whole new one. Jazzed up tunes such as “A Lizard State” or “Rock Bottom” were played with more speed and intensity, while his slower jams such as “Ocean Bed” or “Out Getting Ribs” were accentuated by extra drums or stretched out with amazing solos. Krule’s presence was impressive to begin with, but his band members added something great to the songs as well.
The show concluded with his single “Easy Easy” being performed with such intensity and theatrics that the record version could not compare. Afterwards the crowd was so energized they brought Krule back on stage for an encore.
Seeing independent singer/songwriters can be hit or miss, but this show goes to show how an artist’s enthusiasm, a great backup band and an effective light show can come together to leave an audience awestruck.
thescene@theeagleonline.com
