Arcade Fire ::: 1stBank Center ::: 04.09.11

Arcade Fire and their big top vintage circus stage show rolled into town Saturday night before a capacity crowd in Broomfield at the nicely remodeled 1stBank Center (love the free arcade games). Arcade Fire are riding on a euphoric high all stemming from their unexpected Grammy win earlier this year. Their setlist delved from their three albums, with a heavy emphasis on “Suburbs,” as expected. One thing I observed Saturday night that I hadn’t observed the previous two times I had seen them before is how much of an adhesive Regine Chassagne provides for the band. Her vocals and ability to rally the troops is understated and her role as a silent leader is one that fits her well. Most of the members of the band seem only know one speed, “GO,” however, she more than most functioned as the essential adhesive to keep the show firing on all cylinders. “Suburbs” is my least favorite album. It leads me to believe that Grammy voters will give current year awards for prior works. However, the album played live made sense. “We Use to Wait” simmered slowly to nice beat and “Month of May” played nicely to a “Lost Highway” inspired video with Win screaming the vocals as he punished his guitar. I have found a new appreciation for “Suburbs” and tracks like “Empty Room” and “Ready to Start” had new life breathed into each other respectively. Even “Rococo,” which I typically just hit next sounded great. The choice of Local Natives opening up proved to be a no-brainer. The So-Cal kids from Silver Lake did their part by keeping the stage warm and promised a new album on their next trip to Colorado.

Arcade Fire-Age of Consent (New Order cover) [mp3]