LCD Soundsystem was not the night’s headliner, but they played like one, turning the stage into a platform for utter and complete catharsis. Lead singer James Murphy, dressed in a simple flannel-print shirt and jeans, sporting light scruff on his neck and chin, started the show with “Dance Yourself Clean” from the band’s latest album This Is Happening.
The crowd commenced with dancing, bobbing to each and every pulse of the base and synth. It only got better from there, as Murphy sang “All My Friends” while the setting sun washed the rising moon in orange glow. As the steady drum beat of “Movement” filled the audience’s chests, the set morphed into an epic production; the darkness gave way to purple glow and disco-ball glitter that shined from the stage. Balloons and giant beach balls bounced across the crowd, and a brave few crowd-surfed as Murphy let it all out on stage. It was a magical moment, and one of the best performances of ACL so far.
The night was capped off with M.I.A providing Zilker Park with world beats and flavor, and Muse, who broke hearts with their emotional brand of rock. M.I.A put on a wild production, with what looked like ‘80s stock graphics flashing on the screen and nearly ten dancers on stage. She climbed on top of speakers and walked through the audience to get close to the fans.
Muse was the last band to finish their set, and Matthew Bellamy’s sweeping vocals echoed across the park, unchallenged by any other sound. It was an epic end to a great Saturday, and music fans left the festival with smiles on their faces and the reverberations of their favorite bands in their minds and hearts. Now, one day of the festival remains. Look for a recap of Sunday at ACL soon.
Article comments
1 - Northwest Music Scene
I caught the webcast of JJ Grey on Friday....thoroughly enjoyed his performance and it looked like everyone was having a good time!
2 - Jay
The band form Brooklyn was not Supersonik they are called NINJASONIK.