Nashville – Brooklyn-based super-duo Hank & Cupcakes rocked a blowout performance at the High Watt the other night. Comprised of wife Ariel Scherbacovsky and husband Sagit Shir, The Tel Aviv natives delivered a mind-blowing set packed with pure energy and a hearty serving of the band’s characteristic quirkiness. Their positively unique spin on upbeat electro-pop could hardly be contained, and whatever fans witnessed this past Wednesday night, they took with them long after the show ended.
The band released Ca$h 4 Gold in September 2014 and have been touring the U.S. ever since in order to promote their latest tracks. With dates planned all over the country, it seems that Hank & Cupcakes have gained a significant amount of momentum since their humble beginnings. Best New Bands reviewed the duo nearly two years ago, and if this tour is a testament to anything, it’s the band’s hard work and relentless imagination.
Although the band was, at times, shrouded by a layer of silliness on stage, their strong chemistry and dedication towards each other—and the music—could not be hidden. Hank & Cupcakes are nothing if not effervescent, and it’s clear that they face each show with a genuine love for performance and the audience. While some acts can be stiff and removed when they address everyone in the crowd, Ariel knew exactly what to say and when. “Nashville is one of the coolest cities in the country,” she yelled, and—unsurprisingly—the audience responded with a series of appreciative yelps and raucous applause.
However, it’s not like Hank & Cupcakes had to work hard to get the attention they deserved. Their sound, which is inherently likeable already, also feels tailor-made for live performances. “Ain’t No Love” nearly brought the place down with its thumping bass drum, and though it’s supported by an upbeat rhythm, the song is, at its roots, unapologetic. Watching Ariel belt out the lyrics—accompanied by Sagit’s furrowed concentration on the bass—could make one renounce listening to digital singles altogether.
Although the band seems happy-go-lucky on the surface, Hank & Cupcakes showed us a side of their music that was shadowy and vulnerable. Once again maintained by a practiced and persistent rhythm, “Go Slow” was executed with a dark intensity that demonstrated how crafty this duo could be. Though their name might suggest otherwise, Hank & Cupcakes isn’t all sweetness—and it works. They understand the symbiosis that exists between saccharine pop and raw, bitter energy.
Watching Hank & Cupcakes perform live was like downing an energy drink in one giant, deliberate gulp: it gave listeners a much-needed jolt in all the right places. However, there was no crash, no hangover once the show was over—all that remained was a high. This group has a way of sticking to you; perhaps it’s their larger-than-life stage presence, or maybe it’s because their music is so delightfully original. In any case, I’ll be keeping a close watch on the two as they make their way through their tour and pick up more and more fans along the way.
Want to see if Hank & Cupcakes are coming to your town as a part of their 2015 tour? Keep up with the band on Facebook and Twitter.
Amaryllis Lyle
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