Brooklyn – Brooklyn via Minneapolis synth poppers Strange Names are in the midst of performing a string of New York City shows that included one at trendy Bushwick venue Alphaville the other night, alongside Tony Castles and Hints via impeccable curators PopGun Presents. The band, comprised of Liam Benzvi, Francis Ximenez, Fletcher Aleckson and Lawn Mall, have recently released the blogged-about singles “Ricochet” and “I Can’t Control Myself” from the upcoming album Use Your Time Wisely, due May 19on indie staple Frenchkiss Records, and the quartet’s eagerness for playing new songs was unmistakable during their set.
It’s fair game to expect a band’s performance to feature some sort of reliance on tried-and-true past singles to angle crowd participation, and as a band that has been playing together for nearly four years Strange Names definitely have a few under their belt. However, it was refreshing to see the act play a set entirely comprised of new music, relying on upbeat and infectious new album tracks to keep up the momentum of an impressively large Thursday night crowd out to see a band that wasn’t headlining. Opening with initial album track “Brick City,” Strange Names made even previously unfamiliar tracks memorable. A highlight was “Supernatural,” buoyed by catchy lyricism and a dynamic performance by all of the band members, and seems a sign that post-album release, Strange Names are destined for the kind of massive singalongs and nostalgic vibes reminiscent of 1am at any bar where everyone is having a good time and not afraid to show it.
Previously released single “Ricochet,” the band’s first off their upcoming album (previously highlighted by Best New Bands as being filled with “contemporary and upbeat hooks”), lived up to its audio appeal, with Benzvi’s unapologetic bridge “when you see me on the floor” proving relatable and matched by the enthusiasm of his audience.
Pure and unabashed fun is key in describing the quartet’s performance, led by lead vocalist Benzvi’s quirky energy and continuous movement on stage. At no point did the band appear to merely be going through the motions, giving each track a dedicated performance and really defining what it means to put on a good show. This attitude extended to Strange Names’ visual aesthetic, emphasized by some standout red camouflage overalls donned by Benzvi. The band’s unique aesthetic suited the hip atmosphere of Alphaville, a hidden nugget of a bar and live venue within the flourishing scene of Bushwick. However, in the same scene where people often present themselves as too cool, the feel good vibes of Strange Names proved difficult to resist as the band’s dancefloor fillers stripped away any fronts and exteriors.
Closing their set with “I Can’t Control Myself,” a synth-laden gem that defines the band’s sound and could easily be applied to their toe-tapping rhythms, the act left their mark as well as much anticipation for their debut LP.
Experience Strange Names engaging live performance for yourself at one of their upcoming NYC dates, where they play Pianos on April 23rd as well as support U.K. outfit Prides at The Westway on May 14th.
Photo of Strange Names by Ruby Hoffman
Ruby Hoffman
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