Gotye and Kimbra performed a sold out show Thursday night at the House of Blues and what a night it was. For those unfamiliar with Gotye or Kimbra, they each have a sound all their own. They both are a bit quirky and offbeat, but in a good way. Refreshing would probably be the best way to describe their music. I had my expectations set fairly high for this concert and I can safely say that Gotye and Kimbra did not disappoint.
Kimbra opened the show, performing a nine-song set that lasted a little less than an hour. She pranced on stage in a tea party dress with her lips painted a deep red. And, man, did this girl have energy! She danced around the stage and enthusiastically shook her tambourine to every song. Her raspy, piercing voice took over the room and set the crowd swaying as she belted the most soulful parts of her songs. She even used an awesome loop during “Plain Gold Ring.” There’s no doubt she’s a musical talent.
Once Kimbra had said goodnight and the stage was set for Gotye, the lights dimed and the five-member band emerged to deafening cheers from the House of Blues crowd. The band modestly picked up their instruments and began their first song of the evening, “Eyes Wide Open.” All of their songs were accompanied by some unbelievable video art projected on a screen behind them. The art ranged from surreal drawings to space images to cartoons that were reminiscent of those played on Cartoon Network in the ‘90s.
He interacted with the crowd and involved them in a couple of his songs. The obvious favorite of the night came in the middle of the set when Kimbra was brought back on stage to duet “Somebody That I Used to Know” with Gotye. The second she stepped on stage the crowd whipped out their cell phones to record the performance. The crowd cheered and sang along with every lyric. Gotye ended his set and walked off stage with a wave and a quick goodnight. The crowd shouted and applauded until the band came back on stage for a three-song encore. After the last note was struck, Gotye said goodnight again and briskly walked off stage.
Now, I need to say that Gotye makes great studio albums, but nothing can compare to what he does live. Please, if you ever get the chance to see him live, do it! He takes his audience on a fantastical tour of sound that cannot be experienced anywhere else. I’m not even entirely sure what genre to put his music under. It’s modern, futuristic, tribal, psychedelic, rhythmic, and folksy all at once. Don’t be fooled though. His music isn’t only made for eccentric individuals. It can easily be enjoyed by anyone who is even slightly interested in music.
I really can’t say enough good about both Kimbra’s performance and Gotye’s performance at the House of Blues. I was extremely impressed by both of their sets and will definitely be catching their next show in Boston. I recommend you do, too. You won’t be disappointed.
By: Danielle Medina