Article by Wendy Podmenik Darugar / Photos by Glenn Woodell and Wendy Podmenik Darugar
Working for MonkeyGoose, I have the opportunity to attend frequent concerts. Some concerts, I have to admit, just end up not being to my taste. But Moon Taxi– I had listened to a few of their songs beforehand on Youtube, liked what I heard- and what a wonderful surprise. The show at The NorVa was absolutely flawless, and they had me dancing on the balcony in a most unprofessional manner by the time they played my new favorite, ”Who’s to Say?” off of their latest release, “Daybreaker”. I would call the level of attendance for this show disappointing in comparison to the high level of talent on stage, but the small crowd seemed to be mostly devoted fans who made up for low numbers with great enthusiasm.
Hailing from Nashville, Tennessee, Moon Taxi has a prog/jam/alt sound with smooth, fluid, easy vocals and a catchy beat. “Morocco” was an obvious favorite with the crowd, sparking off a lot of whooping and sing alongs. At times soulful, at times funky, their music was accompanied by a great light show that included mirror balls that reflected hundreds of shards of scattered, colored light among the audience and filled The NorVa with an awe inspiring atmosphere.
Opening band from Richmond, VA, The Congress, was a perfect musical match for the evening. Bringing harmonies with a hint of Grateful Dead influence and a bit of southern twang, they also presented the crowd with a polished flow to their set and a hippie vibe on stage. Their set featured occasional songs fit for a slow dance with a lover; a classic croon that would easily inspire couples to grasp hands on the dance floor and enjoy each other’s presence.
This was a great show overall; well worth the price of a ticket and as the evening ended, I was thankful that, at times, I get to witness young musicians and bands that are inspiring, that add meaning to my day to day shuffle, and to have the opportunity to see something magical grow. Onwards and upwards, Moon Taxi.
Websites:
http://www.thecongressmusic.org/