The Canadian Synth Rock band known as The Birthday Massacre return in 2014 with their sixth overall studio album titled Superstition. Known for taking the mystical side of ’80s New Wave and combining it with heavy guitars, along with a theatrical look, The Birthday Massacre are perhaps one of the most underrated bands of the past fifteen years. Taking to the road in support of the new material, the band teamed up with So-Cal’s New Years Day and The Red Paintings for a two month long tour across North America. Begun on the east coast in early November and working their way to West Hollywood, CA ,on Sunday November 30th the tour made its way to a packed-out The Roxy for an evening of exciting music.
First to take the stage was Australian Orchestral Art Rock act The Red Paintings. Led by mastermind vocalist/songwriter Trash McSweeney, the band’s touring line-up consists of Alix Kol (violin, vocals), Mitch McLennan (bass), Andy Davis (drums), and Emma Baker (cello). Bringing a unique mix of sounds to the stage, their performance was filled with exciting stage presence that engaged the audience. Proving to have a strong underground following, the audience cheered in appreciation of the band as they performed tracks like “The Revolution is Never Coming.” The Red Paintings is certainly an interesting band to check out that is a step away from the norm. Their newest album You’re Not One of Them is out now.
Next up was the Alternative Rock band New Years Day. Formed back in 2005, the band has sustained a variety of changes in their growth process over the years. Originally more of a Powerpop act with their major label debut self-titled album in 2007, the band took a different direction in 2013 with their Victim to Villain album which tingled with more Gothic Rock undertones. Fronted by the intriguing vocalist Ash Costello, the line-up has also had some shuffling over time, and now consists of Anthony Barro (bass), Nikki Misery (guitar), along with newest member Nick Rossi (drums). After spending the summer of 2013 on the Vans Warped Tour and supporting Combichrist in the earlier part of 2014, New Years Day find themselves as a perfect fit for The Superstition tour aside The Birthday Massacre.
As the band took the stage with immense energy, they had The Roxy equally as enthused as they played through songs like “I’m No Good,” “Angel Eyes,” and newer track “Epidemic.” Costello, wearing a black PVC dress, moved about the platform and sang passionately as the rest of the band provided a thick wall of music. Their melodic emotional mix of Rock has certainly become their own as they continue to progress and there is no doubt their following continues to mount. Their newest EP titled Epidemic is their latest offering and well-worth a listen.
By the time The Birthday Massacre were set to perform The Roxy was full of fans waiting patiently for them as they screamed the band’s name in unison. With mood setting dark purple tints illuminating the stage, guitarists Falcore and Rainbow, Synth master Owen, and drummer Rhim each took their positions before vocalist Chibi followed. Igniting a massive release of adrenaline, they opened with the silky distorted guitar track “Red Stars.” Immediately fast forwarding to the present, they rattled out a list of new songs with “Destroyer,” “Divide,” “Diaries,” and album title track “Superstition.” Doing a fine job of bringing the delicate tones of the synth melodies to life, Owen’s timing was perfect and matched with the sweet tone of Chibi’s singing; it was like being in the recording studio with the band. Keeping fan-favorites coming seamlessly one after another, just a few of the highlights were “Video Kid,” “Leaving Tonight,” and “Kill the Lights.” Tucked in between the back tracks was another newbie by the name of “Beyond.” Having recently released a music video for the song, the audience showed a strong connection with the music as they sang along. The crowd participation did not stop there though, in fact, each track they performed, many fans reached to the front of the stage to touch hands with Chibi. Always humble and appreciative of the support, Chibi outstretched her arms to connect with as many people as possible.
As the set moved along, the mystique of The Birthday Massacre’s music continued to send warm sensations out to the audience. Both Falcore and Rainbow delivered a consistent full-octane performance throughout as Owen moved from side to side of the stage with his keytar. Never losing momentum, other highlights included “Blue,” “Control,” and set closer “In the Dark.” As the band departed from the stage, the swell of cheers became excessively louder and erupted once they returned for an encore that began with “Happy Birthday.” Continuing to be charismatic, Chibi bewitched spectators so much so it was impossible to look away. Keeping the delivery compelling with affectionate vocals, blazing guitars, and solid rhythm section, the night ended with 2010 songs “Sleepwalking” and “Midnight.”
The Birthday Massacre put on a show that was infectious. Their ability to grab control of the room and immerse their audience in each and every song was remarkable. They simply know how to bring their music to life live while entertaining and creating an exhilarating atmosphere. While they do have a very dedicated underground following, which continues to grow, it is astounding this band has not awarded more attention from the mainstream. Nevertheless, those in the know are the lucky ones as The Birthday Massacre are a perfect blend of Synthrock. While The Superstition tour has come to a close in 2014, there are hopes to see a second leg lift off sometime in the new year.
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