With the recent release of Mates of State‘s new record Bring it Back, their fans in Philadelphia were anxiously awaiting the duo’s arrival that blustering evening. The night opened, or rather exploded, with one man outfit Panther. Clad in tennis shoes and a sweatband, Panther mesmerized those strolling through the doors with musical stylings of techno, experimental disco rock, and lively stage antics. Next, Maria Taylor stepped up to serenade and sooth the crowd with her soulful melodies. Backed by members of The Good Life and a much unexpected Conor O’Berst for a tune or so, Maria Taylor commanded the attention of the audience. How could anyone resist her sweet honey voice? It was clear that Maria Taylor embodied the talents of great American female songwriters.
The aftermath of chatter among the young Philly hipsters after Conor’s appearance practically had me begging for The Mates to take the stage. Along came the bluesy sounds of Beth Ditto and The Gossip. You couldn’t help but bop your head along to the beat of The Gossip. They infused the crowd with loud, fast jazz and raw, nail-biting vocals playing hits off of Standing in the Way of Control. The crowd followed Beth’s lead in a swell of free form dancing and watched close as she strutted back and forth across the stage in heels, no less.
The Mates of State proved well worth the wait. Kori confessed to the crowd that she had a “frog in her throat” and would appreciate everyone’s help with singing. Lucky for fans they had their chance for a moment in the spotlight with Mates of State. Sing-alongs with Starman, HaHa, and Goods just to name a few, erupted with smiles and laughter. I quickly forgot that imaginary line that is frequently placed between an artist and their audience. The Mates transformed the “concert” into a family party. Groups of friends gleefully hopped on stage huddled together at the mic next to Kori. The true surprise came when the duo began playing hits off Bring it Back. The fact that the record was released just 3 days before The Starlight Ballroom show didn’t stop fans from singing along with new songs “I Like U Crazy,” “For the Actor,” “So Many Ways,” and “Think Long.” I picked up the record that night after the show and was thrilled with every track. I definitely noticed a change from Team Boo to Bring it Back, a delightful progression, a natural discovery you might say. However, Mates of State will always and forever be a band you must see live.
(ed. Check out Conor rockin the Yuengling….I’m so so jealous)
