It was an emotional rollercoaster this month for Philly-area Explosions In The Sky fans. First, their 4/9 show at the Starlight Ballroom sold out weeks before anyone thought it would and hundreds mourned. Then, we were saved. The band announced a second show at The Trocadero the next day, and there was rejoicing in the city. Also, the sound at the Troc kicks the Starlight’ ass, so double score for us.

On the leisurely walk to the venue, we randomly walked into this on 13th and Sansom. The night was off to a good start and it only got better from there. Read about it after the jump!

Explosions managed to sell out this show too, so it was packed. We walked in during the middle of Lichens’ set. I have to say though the concept was very interesting (one dude with a microphone looping his voice into a crazy, trance-inducing harmony), but one would have to be under the influence of way more chemical substances than I was to enjoy it for more than thirty seconds.

Explosions took the stage to thunderous applause. It was one of the most respectful Philly crowds I’d ever seen. As soon as they began to play, you could have heard a pin drop. That is, until the subdued, ambient intro of “Greet Death” turned into a giant, face-slapping wall of sound. It was an incredible moment.

Admittedly, for anyone that is a not a huge fan of the band, the show might have gotten a little tedious. Fortunately, it was a room filled with uber-fans. When they launched into fan favorite “Your Hand In Mine,” strangers around me were exchanging excited looks. It’s a band that brings people together. They played a fair amount of material off their spectacular 2007 release, All Of A Sudden I Miss Everyone (Temporary Residence) along with some old favorites. The show actually seemed pretty packed with material considering most songs clock in at 8+ minutes.

The band was incredibly energetic as well. The highlight was guitarist Munaf Rayani throwing his guitar above his head and slamming it to the ground during the crescendo of “Memorial.” Playing this type of music looks like an extremely physically and emotionally draining experience. That being said, there was no encore for this set, but the band staggered offstage to the sounds of Philly loving them.

Lichens

Explosions in the Sky

Tags: explosions in the sky, show review //