Chicago – It may have been a Wednesday night, but Chicagoans were ready to get down and party with electronic outfit Clean Bandit like it was a Saturday. Although, there was a slight snag in the plan; the U.K. foursome was down a man, with violinist and pianist Neil Amin-Smith having hurt his wrist. (Best New Bands recently interviewed Neil. Click HERE to check it out!) Anxious fans discussed the tweet he sent out, hoping perhaps it was just an April Fools’ prank. Unfortunately, it wasn’t, but Grace Chatto (cello) and brothers Jack (bass and keys) and Luke Patterson (drums) did without their mate because the show must go on! Welcome to show business, kids.
Clean Bandit started the night out with “Real Love,” off the deluxe edition of their critically acclaimed debut LP New Eyes (Atlantic). Singer Elisabeth Troy floated around stage, like a bird in her white, winged one-piece. At times, Chatto danced along with her, like two magical swans, bathed in light. It seemed as if everyone at the Metro was dancing along with the Grammy Award winners – in February, the group won a Grammy for the single “Rather Be,” featuring U.K. singer Jess Glynne – from the balcony down to the main floor, turning the rock venue into a dance hall.
Chatto and Troy talked about how Chicago was the best gig on tour last time around. Fans didn’t disappoint this show either. The band agreed Chicago had the best crowd so far, showing so much love and really feeling the music. Folks in the Windy City sure do love a party, especially when it comes to house music. After all, it was birthed here. So, it’s no wonder Clean Bandit gets a warm welcome when they roll into town! Plus, it is always amazing to see dance music made with actual instruments.
Of course the band played their 2010 single “Mozart’s House.” They also had fans going wild with “A&E,” “Stronger,” and “Extraordinary.” Clean Bandit even played a new tune, “Too Hood,” filled with deep, amazingly fast beats. Percussionist Luke Patterson proved to be rather impressive! His brother Jack was also fantastic on saxophone, with buttery solos.
When it came time for an encore, Chatto screamed, “This is the most amazing gig! We love Chicago!” Before breaking into a cover of “Show Me Love,” Chatto apologized for Neil not being in attendance. She said he was very upset and asked the room to send Neil a message. Suddenly it became extraordinarily quiet. Chatto began filming with her phone. Then Troy signaled the fans to yell, “Neil!” People waved and cheered well wishes. Afterward, the real fun began. The Metro boomed with voices singing along to the Robin S. song. Troy sung, “Baby if you want me, what are you going to do? Tell me!” A loud, “Show me love!” echoed. Clean Bandit ended their set with “Rather Be.” People sang along, and a furious dance explosion shook bodies up and down.
Australian pop singer Meg Mac kicked the night off. Mac not only recently signed with Lyon Cohen’s 300 Entertainment, but she also made her U.S. debut at SXSW. After taking in the Texas heat, and following the release of her self-titled debut EP, Mac joined Clean Bandit on tour. Meg Mac has been compared to Adele, Duffy, and Amy Winehouse. She showed off her vocal range and captivating, soulful tunes, like “Roll Up Your Sleeves” and “Every Lie,” proving BuzzFeed right: she is an artist you need in your life!
Clean Bandit is currently on tour. A list of dates is available on the band’s facebook page. They’ll also be playing Coachella, The Governors Ball, and T in the Park.
Photos: Clean Bandit – Facebook/Uncredited, Meg Mac by Sarah Hess
Sarah Hess
After attending The School of the Art Institute in Chicago, Sarah went on to study education at Dominican University, earning a degree in history. When not teaching, writing, or taking in a show, she is most likely to be found with a camera to her eye or hanging out in a darkroom.
You can follow Sarah Hess on twitter at @Sarahhasanh and view her music photography on her website: smhimaging.com.
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