Walking into Can’t Say, support act B.A.B.Y was throwing around an assortment of Richard Mercer vibes along with a few punchy beats.
Unfortunately due to the early set, people were a rare sight and thus, missed some stellar song selections. A lively arrangement of Friendly Fires, Grimes, Tame Impala, TEED and Kanye set a ample vibe in the front room upon arrival.
Manic Pixie Dream Girl deejayed next and with Pigeon’s pushed back start time (whether intentionally or not), it effectively gave a chance for more arrivals and increased the possibility for a decent hype.
Playing an array of well-liked and well-known artists such as Crystal Castles, Daft Punk, Estelle, Snoop Dogg and JT created a certain atmospheric buzz, which was a wise move in anticipation for the main act.
30 minutes later than scheduled, Pigeon emerged to a crowd of roughly 40 people in the main tunnel. The initial audience intimacy was rather beautiful during their opener and then slightly eradicated when “All That Bad” drew in a further 20 people.
Their jumpy second single had 90 percent moving fervently and paved the introduction for Luke Cuerel; Pigeons magic weapon. Giving this electro-rock outfit a contemporary edge, Cuerel showcased a unique brassy brilliance with his saxophone.
Unsurprisingly, his “Encounters” solo received an enthusiastic and appreciative crowd response.
Throughout the set, it was challenging to spot a single individual standing still. Everyone was there to dance, whether it in a party posse or solo, which was not only entertaining but also enjoyable to watch.
It was inevitable their 10-minute Daft Punk cover would be witnessed and despite my original reservations of the recording, their live performance gave it personality and pizzazz. Illuminating the tunnels with a medley full of those infamous tracks flooded in patrons from the front room and the odd, sparse crowd spacing turned minimal.
As the dance moves got weirder and the crowd sing-a-longs got louder, Cuerel tried to initiate a handclap and similarly bassist Chris Paget tried a fist pump. Unfortunately (perhaps not in the case of the first pump), it was to no avail.
“Stratosphere”s slow tempo beginnings saw a change in pace and the floor empty slightly but it’s drawn out, intense build kept a large audience attention and involvement. Notably, there was a great use of lighting in darkening the stage during the build, allowing for an explosive chorus. Can’t Say’s new lasers were a perfect match for and got a great workout during “Animals”. Additionally, the percussion break down that followed was nothing short of impressive.
Lead singer Danny Harley introduced their second cover of the night as a ‘difficult song to sing’ and encouraged vocal support from the crowd.
What came next was beyond unexpected. Mashing together two karaoke floor fillers, Pigeon created the sonic progeny of Beyonce and JT with “Crazy In Love” and “Senorita”. What could’ve easily turned tragically trashy was executed and likewise received with an amusing, artistic quality.
Finishing up with their most recognised songs from the Fortunes EP, “Curtain Call” and “Oh Hebe”, these electro-pop gods drove the set home. With surprisingly only the dedicated fans left, the intimacy from the beginning reappeared and a unified collective-as well as the band, gave every last ounce of energy and exuberance.
Pigeon’s passion was beautifully mesmerising to watch as glimpses were caught of each member singing to themselves and their virtuoso was illustrated by instrumental changes.
After such a highly energetic performance, the crowd’s lust for more was kicked into overdrive and the typical encore chants begun.
Having nowhere to truly hide at this venue, the band obligingly but very appreciatively jumped back on stage. Being unexpected they had no songs left so churned out another killer cover. Rebirthing Paul Simon’s “If You Be My Bodyguard” with their heavy electro punch and phenomenal saxophonist, once again saw the tunnel increase with people and atmospheric euphoria.
No doubt with the bands ultimate and increasing success this intimacy will become a rarity. It was a pleasure to have gotten in early and am looking forward to following their future growth.
