Article & Photos by: Kyle Ostrander
New York City – Metal band Deafheaven have been front-of-mind for heavy music fans this year. Since releasing their amazing new album Lonely People With Power back in March, the group has been on an extensive string of tour dates in support of the record. This included two sold out NYC shows, one of them on Wednesday night at Irving Plaza.
As the stage went dark, the atonal intro track “Incidental I” played through the speakers while the band members marched on stage. Vocalist George Clarke quickly ran to the edge of the stage and motioned for the crowd to get excited and make some noise. The audience responded by throwing their arms up and cheering loudly as the group immediately kicked off with the force of a jet engine into “Doberman”. Sweetly distorted guitars and guttural vocals filled the room, and didn’t let up for the entire set. As the palm muted chords of “Magnolia” washed over the venue, the crowd, many of whom waited in the rain to get as close to the stage as possible, cranked up the energy even higher as they moshed and crowd surfed. Clarke often responded in kind, urging fans to sing along as he ran triumphantly across the stage, arms raised, unleashing powerful screams.
The twelve song set pulled mostly from Lonely People With Power, with a few of their earlier cuts sprinkled in, such as “Brought to Water”, “Sunbather”, and fan favorite “Dream House”. “This is the Lonely People With Power Tour, so we’re gonna play from that record tonight. This next song is a love song, so let’s all move together. Can you do that for me NYC??” said Clark before performing “The Garden Route”. Their fans seemed appreciative and excited at the chance to hear the new music performed live. “I love all their music, but I seriously love their new album! I really hope they play a lot from it tonight. That would be sick!” said one fan to their friend before the show. Every song was executed with the tightness and precision of veteran musicians who are clearly masters of their craft. The band made use of every inch of the stage, jumping onto platforms, switching sides, and swinging their instruments around. Heavy guitars, chunky bass, and an explosive barrage of drumming pushed forward a sonic force that could be felt through the entire body.
Deafheaven’s North American tour continues until May 23rd, after which the group goes overseas in June for more shows. You can view the full list of tour dates on their website.