Seamless waves of experimental surf-pop filled the basement venue, as Ducktails cast a melancholy spell over Patterns on Friday.
Nostalgia-tinged influences, ranging all the way from experimental chill-pop to psychedelic rock, sonically pleased the bustling onlookers, as Real Estate frontman, Matt Mondanile’s lesser known solo(ish) project returned to the UK with a hugely professional performance.
The New Jersey based quintet showed off their uniquely crafted sound in a set which, at points, felt more like an intimate jam-session. Occasional blasting guitar solos unexpededly broke out from the easy-listening nature, leaving the eager crowd swooning. Mondanile’s relaxed vocal melodies sat above an array of modulated guitars, as he sporadically jumped between lead guitar and synth.
Pedestrian drum beats lay the fundaments throughout the set, with a slightly dazed Mondanile’s self-appreciative dancing forming much of the visual aspect. Occasional pauses between tracks allowed a brief opportunity for the band to share a few jokes, before opening another swirling number.
The elated fans demanded more, with the group eventually returning for a surprise encore. Mondanile used the opportunity to conduct a search for his lost merchandise seller, before bringing the sophisticated showcase to a pleasant end.
Four Stars
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