Silversun Pickups: Their Third Visit to The Midland
At The Midland on Wednesday, April 24, Silversun Pickups put on a performance that proved why they dominate the alternative rock scene. Although the band faced certain obscurity and challenges, they still managed to gather their audience together for an awe-inspiring concert experience.
The Spectacular Performance
Dressed in a large black sweater with gray hearts, frontman Brian Aubert extended a rock n’ roll salute to the crowd. With a gentle ‘we worship the dark lord’ spoken into the mic, he pulled the audience into the arcane world of the Silversun Pickups. Despite the unusual circumstances, the seasoned LA group did not let anything throw them off their game.
Renowned for their alternative rock style and pioneering contributions in the late 2000s, Silversun Pickups’ latest album, Physical Thrills, made a distinct mark on the night. Four of its tracks took center stage, displaying the band’s evolution from shoegaze crunch to an increasing electronic emphasis.
Starting off With Rocket
The music-filled night started with Rocket, an LA-based indie band. The newbies warmed up the crowd with their unique tunes and set the stage for the big act, Silversun Pickups. Though the venue was not fully packed, the atmosphere was far from lackluster, with eager fans waiting in anticipation.
Aubert and His Cohorts
After a brief intermission, at nearly 9:10 pm, Aubert and his band made their grand appearance. The Silversun Pickups, named after a liquor store in California, were formed in 2000 after Aubert met bassist Nikki Monninger on a plane. A couple of years later, they were joined by drummer Christopher Gunlao and sound artist Joe Lester, solidifying the band’s iconic lineup.
A Trip Down Memory Lane
Their setlist curated to encompass selections from their early and recent work, their beloved songs “Lazy Eye” and “Panic Switch” featured prominently. Aubert’s ethereal vocals fondly reminded fans of the bands’ earlier days when they electrified Coachella and played alongside giant acts like Muse.
The Encore
After their main set concluded, the band exited the stage and left the fans eagerly waiting for the encore. Silversun Pickups did not disappoint, returning with a powerful performance that included their all-time favorites. In Aubert’s style, he concluded the night with the classic, “Lazy Eye”, a nostalgic reminder of their long journey in the music industry.
A Night to Remember
Despite the unusual circumstances, Silversun Pickups’ third visit to The Midland put them in an unfamiliar position. Yet, they used this challenge to deliver a performance that echoed their love for music and their fans. Their enchanting setlist and spirited performances not only embodied the band’s unique evolution but also stood as a testament to their influence on the alternative rock scene. The concert was a night of celebration for music, a testament to the power of performance, and above all, a testament to the enduring appeal of Silversun Pickups.
