Phoenix live in Vancouver, BC at the Orpheum Theatre with You Say Party! We Say Die!

reviewed by Caley Dimmock

The venue, the lights, the people, the energy, and of course…the music; all elements were spectacular in forming an amazingly killer vibe at Phoenix’s show at The Orpheum in Vancouver on January 22.

Opening act, Abbotsford’s, You Say Party! We Say Die! got the night off to a great start with their energetic sound and addictive stage presence. Frontwoman Becky Ninkovic was nothing but successful in evoking the layers of their sound through her somewhat awkward jolting movements. I couldn’t keep my eyes off of her beauty and sparkly attire. The only part that upset me about their performance was the numerous empty seats; Those Phoenix addicts missed out on a truly awesome opening act.

During set up for Phoenix, my partner in crime and I headed out to the lobby for a “refreshment” (of the alcoholic kind of course). I was mesmerized by what I saw while out there: A jam packed beautiful lower level, staircase, and upper level filled with some of the best fashion I have seen in Vancouver. The guys were plaid clad, and the females for the most part were outfitted in their best trendy attire. I only wish I had my camera on me for such a beautiful sight.

By the time Phoenix was ready to hit the stage, the venue was filled to the brim. Everybody had moved up from their seats to the stage in hopes of getting as close to the band as possible. They opened the show with “Liztomania” – an obvious crowd pleaser. They followed with other tracks from their most recent release, Wolfgang Amadeus.

The energy all band members had on stage was unbelievable. Every single one of them moved constantly, and all of a sudden I began to think of Phoenix in a new light. Sure, their music always seemed catchy to me, but as someone who tends to lean toward really loud, “I just can’t help but move around like a tool” songs, I was pleasantly surprised when I couldn’t stop bopping back and forth like an idiot. If you thought you liked Phoenix to begin with, attend their live show and I’m sure you’ll fall in love.