hooves on the turf

Download “Sleepyhead” | Passion Pit–Boston’s Michael Angelakos and his four-man crew–was greeted by supportive fans and friends at its first show in New York City, the first of the three being played as part of a residency at Pianos. Emboldened by a full range of synths (Ian Hultquist, Ayad al Adhamy and Michael all huddled and leaped behind keys) and a high-pitched singing style complimentary to a synth-based aesthetic, the band let the room go giddy for its sweet grooves. For a group that plays under such an ambitious name (to be the pit of passion is quite a feat isn’t it?) it definitely stirs a good deal of spirit in its flowing concoctions, but there’s also a hint of sweetness that feels almost a little wide-eyed (in a good way), and that honeyed element is traceable in the band’s personality too. The crowd loved it anyhow and asked for one more song when the short rendezvous came to a close, though there was to be no more. They saved “Sleepyhead” to be the last song but one (out came the laptop), and that tune performed live is quite a ruckus. Next two shows are on August 20th & 27th; definitely go see.

All photos after the jump.

I would’ve really liked to see the other bands, but I had to run in and out. 

Pianos
East Village, New York City
August 13, 2008 

Previously: Passion Pit’s “Sleepyhead”