Purity Ring And BRAIDS Lights Up The Riv

By Gina Provenzano in Arts & Entertainment on Jun 11, 2015 3:00PM

Signs on the doors of The Riviera Theatre warned the crowds of synth pop fans that strobe lights would be used extensively throughout the night's show, and they were not kidding. But in addition to the innovative contemporary art light show, the crowd was treated to a night of tight live vocals, pulsating synth beats and showmanship often not found when electronic acts take the stage.

BRAIDS served as the perfect warm up for the night's headliner. With a slight rock edge, live drums and guitar, singer Raphaelle Standell-Preston's breathy and strong vocals powered through a solid set of songs mostly off of their latest album Deep In The Iris. Aching and urgent tracks like "Miniskirt" and "Taste" left the Riv masses entertained and wanting more.

A nervous energy then took over the crowd as they waited for Purity Ring to take the stage. Fans erupted as soon as the first LED bulb lit up the theatre. Corin Roddick took his place at center stage literally playing Chris Burden-styled lights as he seamlessly kept each dreamy, pulsating tracking rolling throughout the evening. Megan James took to the center of the stage in a white futuristic jumpsuit ready to command the crowd with her signature, dreamy baby-doll vocals.

The duo quickly moved through their set, showcasing their latest album Another Eternity with renditions of "Stranger Than Earth," "Push Pull" and "Heartsight" accompanied by elaborate lights shows highlighting each dreamy beat. Standout crowd-pleasers from their first full-length album Shrines included "Obedear" and "Fineshrine."

In between songs James became overly polite and extremely gracious as she thanked her fans and seemed genuinely surprised to be in front of a sold-out audience. She'd then transform into a commanding, unapologetic front woman as soon as the music started up and fearlessly dove into her adoring crowd during their last song of the night.

It's clear that together Purity Ring has grown since their breakout album. They've matured and have comfortably found their sound and their light up vision for Purity Ring, as they flawlessly brought each heartbreaking song to life. With this energy and artistic growth, I'm excited to see what the future has in store both musically and visually for the duo.