Funeral Party 28/01/11

Being the first live event that Radio Caley had put on in the Student’s association; the excitement for Funeral Party was most definitely at a high.

For all that it was a wee bit back to front with the main performers going on before the support, the acoustic set up and the intimate crowd was perfect for the set that both Funeral Party and the support, Michael Cassidy, were to perform.

The laid back rockers from L.A. strolled onto the stage, setting the scene for a very laid back performance. Lead singer Chad Elliot sat cross-legged for most of the performance, while the lead guitarist smiled along to the polite applause at the end of their performance.

With acoustic performances of ‘Where did it go wrong?’ and ‘The golden age of knowhere,’ Funeral Party showed a beautifully stripped back and delicate side to their usually energetic and vibrant style. Their lyrics and musical talent shone in a different way; it’s always nice to see the diversity of a band.

The expectations of Funeral Party from their singles ‘New York moves to the sound of L.A.’ and ‘Finale’ as well as their album The Golden Age of Knowhere, is that of a loud and lively indie band. However, their acoustic set suitably showed their more sensitive side, proving that they can do a lot more than what one might expect from their records.

After a quick question and answer session between the band and the audience, Michael Cassidy took to the stage. It must have been exceptionally nerve racking going on after the headliners rather than before as expected, but Michael definitely took it in his stride, chatting to the crowd and keeping the excitement and the atmosphere of the afternoon at a high.

Wowing the crowds with his songs, ‘Meet you at the corner,’ ‘15years’ and ‘My electric heart,’ not to mention his unique cover of the Britney Spears classic ‘Baby one more time;’ the crowd were suitably wowed by his rough and ready Glasgow tones.

Michael Cassidy definitely stood up to the plate when it came to his post-Funeral Party performance; a difficult performance considering he had to go on afterwards, rather than before, he managed to keep a strong and enthusiastic crowd who were whooping and cheering in support for this local talent.

With just more than 24 hours notice, we managed to organise a great wee acoustic performance from two exceptionally promising young artists. I think the standard for future performances has suitably been set!