Islands started off the Metric show at the Henry Fonda as a strong opener. Lead singer Nicholas Thorburn or “Nick Diamonds” as he likes to be called (ex-Unicorns front man) invaded the stage atop someone’s shoulders, cloaked in black, looking like an indie Darth Vader. He bobbed and swayed through the first song, then hopped down, stripped off his cape and revealed his completely white duds (the Islands standard). This was the third time I’ve seen Islands and each time they seem to get crazier and crazier on stage. Nick especially seems to be getting more eccentric with every live show.
Islands is very entertaining live. Their multi-instrumental pop songs are energetic and catchy. Although their album doesn’t come out until April, their songs are already replaying in my head from just seeing them a few times. All seven members are very musically adept and they are able to trade instruments, which livens up their performance. With great live shows, a recent Beck remix, and opening slots on some big tours (i.e. Beck/Metric) under their belt, Islands are definitely a band to watch in the coming months!
Metric next took the stage to many adoring fans. Before their set I saw much of their merchandise on display in the crowd, including the ever popular heart shaped “I love Metric” buttons. I last saw Metric in November at the El Rey and if it was even possible, they were more animated this time around. I don’t know how Emily Haines does it. She has so much energy on stage and just keeps going, like a certain bunny associated with batteries. She is always very fashionably dressed and her white blond hair reflects the lights and makes her shine on stage. Jimmy Shaw (guitar), Josh Winstead (bass) and Joules Scott-Key (drums) prove to be a perfect contrast to Emily and provide much of Metric’s signature sound.
Metric’s show is filled with dramatic highs and lows as they transition from dance-rock songs like “Combat Baby” and “Monster Hospital” to their slower more pensive songs like “Too Little Too Late” and “Hustle Rose.” Emily carefully shifts her performance through these songs and can, in a matter of seconds, go from full throttle, head banging, rocking out to sweetly and demurely singing and playing her synthesizer. The rest of the band follows her manic changes effortlessly. Metric’s light show that goes on behind the band adds depth to their performance and an air of arena-rock professionalism. Although, it makes me wonder if constant exposure to it would cause seizures.
Metric closed their set with a four song encore and took the stage to people stomping their feet and calling out “Metric” over and over again. The highlight of the encore for me was “Empty,” when Emily, during the chorus, shook her head vigorously as the song commands. Emily dedicated one song “to everyone at the Silverlake Lounge four years ago.” All I can say is Metric, you’ve come a long way baby!
