The Los Angeles band touring behind its latest album closed out the weekend at 20 Monroe Live with a high-energy display and an audience-involving vibe. Review, photos, set list.
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“HandClap,” indeed.
There was a lot of hand-clapping, dancing and more to close out the weekend in Grand Rapids when Fitz & The Tantrums brought their uplifting sound and one-of-a-kind stage presence to 20 Monroe Live on Sunday night.
Frontman Michael Fitzpatrick led the Los Angeles band through songs spanning its four-album catalog, building up the energy and drawing in the crowd throughout the night.
With uptempo tunes such as “Hands Up,” “123456” and the smash hit, “HandClap,” the band gave the audience every opportunity to join in the energy and fun that they brought to the table.
The six-piece pop outfit with a big sound has been around the block (and the world) touring over the past 11 years, and just returned from Asia as it tours in support of its fourth release, “All The Feels.”
The new release continues the band’s trend of upbeat and catchy pop music, but also incorporates a notably more mindful lyricism which shows growth from previous efforts. The title track, “All The Feels,” and single, “I Just Want to Shine,” were highlights of the evening and served as a welcome contrast to the band’s earlier hits.
Co-lead vocalist Noelle Scaggs moved in tandem with Fitz to create moments of visual drama and romance, and also led crowd involvement as the night went on. Fans — a mostly younger crowd with some familiers — were treated to the instrumental stylings of James King (saxophone, flute, keyboard, percussion and guitar), Joseph Karnes (bass guitar), Jeremy Ruzumna (keyboards) and John Wicks (drums and percussion).
Young L.A. pop-rock act Twin XL got the night started, proving to be a welcome addition to the show.
Fitzpatrick was appreciative of the crowd’s response throughout.
“From each of us to every single one of you, we thank you for coming out tonight,” Fitzpatrick said. “There is no way we’d be on this stage right now if it wasn’t for you.”
Read the Local Spins interview with singer Noelle Scaggs: Fitz and the Tantrums running ‘full steam ahead’ with pop magic
PHOTO GALLERY: Fitz & The Tantrums, Twin XL at 20 Monroe Live
Photos by Anthony Norkus
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