Concert Review: Maribou State Is Declared At Webster Hall
Maribou State pulled an SG Lewis at Webster Hall, and I thought it was brilliant. The D/ electronic world is, probably, the most powerful, undying aspect of the music industry because every generation will go clubbing: no matter what race, creed, ethnicity, or gender. Somehow, we will all end up, at least once, dancing until the wee hours of the morning. as if we don’t have a home, so we need tequila shots and a disco ball to feel better. Yet, when you add live vocals to a DJ/electronic set, it is like getting two cherries on your sundae; you, usually, get one sweet relish but the extra one is a nice surprise.
Maribou State – ‘Nervous Tics (feat. Holly Walker)’ (DJ Tennis Remix)
Sonically, Maribou State reminded me, for some reason, of Gaslee’s Sweat Dreams, but not necessarily in sound as much as in the notion. There was something sweaty and fantastical to their sound; dripping water down bodies like visions down minds. The result was exhilarating and atmospheric, but came most to life when Obi Franky sang, which is why I brought up SG Lewis. When you bring in live singers to a DJ set, they come off like the superhero, EDM version of a live band. It is like the Human Torch flying to join the Fantastic Four; sure, he is a hero on his own, but when he joins those other three, he is FANTASTIC!
Maribou State – ‘Kingdom (feat. North Downs)’ [Official Video]
Franky’s voice was made for the dance scene because she captures the power of the disco. She reminded me of Gloria Gaynor or Donna Summer when they would drop their Heavenly notes over a scintillating, “made-to-vogue” dance tracks. Her presence elevated the night, and allowed it to transition from most club nights into a classic one. All we needed was a Soul Train line into the future, and Maribou State’s show would have been a ripe blend of retro and futurism. They play their instruments and mix-tables with the regard of musicians that see night-life entertainment as needed escapism. Such respect was rewarding for the audience. For More Information On Maribou State Click Here.
