For more pictures of Matt & Kim, check out the WTBU gallery.
I’m not afraid to admit that I had my doubts, walking into the House of Blues to see Brooklyn duo, Matt & Kim. I remember being a freshman in high school, playing the band’s first albums on repeat — obsessing over the infectious, edgy pop tune, Daylight.
More recently, though, the band has gone a different route, veering away from the signature Matt & Kim sound, focusing more on produced, top-40 sounding tracks. While an interesting departure, I will admit that some of the tracks on the band’s latest album have left me nonplussed.
My cynicism was erased, though, at the pair’s sold out show on Friday night, when I witnessed first-hand the passion, dedication, and raw, livewire energy that is Matt & Kim.
It is a rare occasion when a pop duo is able to not only last the greater part of ten years, remaining relevant, but also experiment with different styles and keep a large, loyal fan base. After seeing the svelte, hipster Brooklynites perform, I understand why this is true.
The show proved that Matt & Kim’s true talent lies in live performance, which is more than can be said for most pop performers these days. Kim’s rib-rattling, punk-infused drums meshed well with Matt’s charming synth and unusual vocals. The pair’s goal to make edgy, eccentric pop songs, staying loyal to their distinctive, DIY sound, came across loud and clear. The two put on an entertaining show, and gave the crowd an interesting lesson in the dynamics of a good show. Matt & Kim proved that it takes more than just the ability to craft a good song and play it well onstage. The band’s passion for what they do, as well as for their fans, was palpable. It was inspiring to see the reciprocated energy between band and audience.
Matt & Kim destroyed the line between “famous band” and “loyal fans,” creating a communal vibe and proving that they genuinely want to be best friends with their fans.
I was pleasantly surprised that the pair sampled a range of music, rather than focusing solely on their newest album. The contrast between old and new in a live setting told more of a story than the studio albums are able to, and it was easier to see where the band is headed with their newer sound.
Fusing new tracks like “Let’s Go” and “Not That Bad” with explosive versions of well-known favorites like “Cameras” and “Daylight,” Matt & Kim had the crowd dancing and singing along the entire night. The band’s attention to detail was amplified during “Good Old Fashioned Nightmare,” as Kim threw her whole body into the drum set and Matt pounded out each quirky piano riff. Early on, it became clear that the band intended to leave it all onstage, which they did.
There is no questioning the fact that Matt & Kim are talented musicians who know how to put on a great show, all the while having a good time. By the end of the night everyone was sweaty and content, Kim had walked on the hands of the crowd, and there were even a few bras heaved onstage. It’s safe to say Matt & Kim know how to party.
By: Charlotte Holley