80s’ Alternative rock legends The Psychedelic Furs and The Jesus and Mary Chain brought nostalgia and new wave to The Orpheum Oct. 2 and did not disappoint.
The two bands joined in a tour across America and Canada to bring their sound to long-time fans and new listeners for the first time as a traveling act. While they have been in the public eye for years, many fans in the audience remarked on the fact that this would be their first time seeing one or even both of the bands performing.
The opening act, Frankie Rose, took the stage right at seven where she performed a stunning synth show with lights and fog that immediately transported the audience from the old theater into a world that she created. With all original songs, it was great to see so many people fill their seats to witness the talent that was being exhibited on stage.
The Jesus and Mary Chain, known for songs like “Head On” and “Just Like Honey,” were the first band to perform. With a mostly dark stage aside from some backlighting, the entire band sounded just like they did when they formed in 1983.
Each song was performed with such artistry that every person in the crowd was in awe of each and every song performed. They made sure to play songs spanning over their entire career making every person jump and dance along while singing along to every word. The venue is mainly seated leading the majority of fans to take advantage of the limited space and a break from being on their feet the entire time.
With every song sounding so pristine, it was almost like you could close your eyes and feel as if you were listening to the recording. Every single person in attendance was blown away at the talent of each performer even after so many years of performing and touring.
During their set, singer Jim Reid brought Rose on stage to perform “Sometimes, Always” and “Just Like Honey” for the higher harmonies in the song to bring it to its full potential.
There was never a dull moment during the performance making the entire set a night to remember long before the night is even over. The band finished out their set with the always powerful “Reverence,” which brought everyone to their feet as they sang out the last song. This may have only been the first band of the doubleheader, but it left a lasting impression on the crowd that will last for years.
The Psychedelic Furs, most well known for their songs like “Love My Way” or “Pretty in Pink” took the stage next. Opening the set with “The Boy Who Invented Rock and Roll,” the stage lit up with so many different colors and spotlights that took over the stage and riled up everyone in attendance.
Their set also spanned throughout their entire career, playing the hits, deep cuts and everything in between, leaving the audience in shock over their choices. Many never thought that they would hear any of these songs live in their lifetime let alone with such ease and perfection as the day they were written.
Throughout the entire performance, each member played their part beautifully and left everyone speechless. The vocals along with the instrumentals were perfection that could only be matched in a studio.
Finishing out the set with “Mr. Jones” easily flowing into “Heaven” the crowd erupted into cheers and applause. Even with the knowledge that the end of the show was imminent, this moment felt like one to hold onto forever. Not only was the performance itself amazing but the crowd felt like a family at that point listening to these songs that came out over 30 years ago.
The crowd was electric with each song that was performed. With the age range spanning decades, this show only further proved that these bands will live on forever through their songs.
