Los Angeles – Chicago indie rockers Empires played to a sold-out show with Rush Midnight, LANY, and headliners Cathedrals. While the other bands attracted a strong core audience with their penchant for synthesizers, the quartet brought something quite different to the night’s lineup. Their pure indie rock resonance was a definite highlight and a refreshing departure from the other sounds of the evening. Empires released their superb third LP, Orphan, last September via Chop Shop Records/Island Records. The tonal shift the album underwent from their previous efforts was a mixture of sounds that included the likes of The Killers, The Bravery, and The National. The band, however, has a wide-ranging sound of their own. Their superlative third record showcased a rebirth of their artistry. It was more elegant in tone, primed and ready for arena-size audiences. While the Echo is a relatively small venue, the band’s magnanimous sound will always be meant for something much greater, but that didn’t sidetrack them from delivering an astonishing live set. They may have only presented eight songs, but their time on stage was incredibly well spent while never hitting an erroneous note.
Empires consist of Sean Van Vleet (vocals), Tom Conrad (guitar), Max Steger (guitar), and Mike Robinson (drums). Lead singer Van Vleet has so many different sides to his vocals; dark and brooding to light and airy, his range is utterly impressive. With dance-ready beats found on “Please Don’t Tell My Love” to anthem style jams like “Journey Kid,” both of which were performed that night, Empires have plenty to offer fans and newcomers alike. The tight knit audience was dazzled by Empires’ intoxicating presentation of wickedly constructed material. One of the standout tracks from Orphan, “Shadowfaux,” was viewed with much esteem from the attendees. The great thing about Empires is how they play each song with tremendous spirit and vigor. “Journey Kid” echoes the sounds of The Killers from the pinnacle time of their own career. However, “Journey Kid” is an improved sound offering dazzling guitars and momentous storytelling. Steger shredded the guitar providing notes that generated a powerful sound surpassing what the album had already offered in the recorded version. “Silverfire” simply captured the essence of cool. Van Vleet riveted the audience when he sung the line “And I’m sorry I’m faded now/I’m so sorry I’m gonna fade out.” This tune, like much of what Empires presents in their repertoire, permeates the minds and hearts of those lost, but not down for the count, souls out there in attendance.
Both “How Good Does It Feel” and “Please Don’t Tell My Lover” hit faster tempos, but still supplied warm melodies. The latter track sounds unlike the rest of the songs in rhythmic quality. The bouncy patterns and elevating cadence alongside the catchy lyrics is a whole different story for Empires in the endless amount of chapters they’ve written. The night supplied very good music from talented acts throughout, but it was Empires that elevated the night. They stood out and lit a different kind of flame. Their musical talents, pertinent lyrics, and overall demeanor truly set them apart from the rest. Empires are that singular band you know should be more recognized. With a lot of unidentifiable acts and plastic sounds scattered heavily in the world, Empires validates how there still is importance residing within the influence of music.
Check out Empires ’ Facebook for upcoming tour info
Photos by Sean Kayden
Sean Kayden
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