The Stifel Theatre got a dose of rock last night with the 105.7 The Point HO HO Show, headlined by Young the Giant. It was a set full of angst and 80s inspired synth, and was complimented perfectly by opening act, Grandson.
Grandson held nothing back as he took the stage with a brief statement to the audience. “Welcome to the early bird special. Get in your seats, grab your popcorn, and judge me.”
With songs like “6:00” and “Kiss Bang” it was clear from the start that the set would be filled with political commentary and honest expression, and was further solidified as Grandson explained that by intention, his shows are polarizing. “You’re either going to love the next 45 minutes, or you’re going to be very uncomfortable.”
He continued through the set with songs that discussed intense topics, but instead of bringing the mood at Stifel down, Grandson was able to light up the audience with the theme of rising up and taking responsibility for the heartbreak experienced in the world.
He explained “Overdose” as a song that discusses the relationship between drug addiction and mental illness. “It’s okay to be going through these things, but we need to find healthier outlets.”
The set marched on with a cover of Bob Marley’s “War” and the theme of power increased to an all time high with “Thoughts and Prayers” and “Blood/Water” which discussed accountability and the idea that “ignorance is privilege.”
Although fresh in the music world with his debut EP, A Modern Tragedy Vol. 1, Grandson is one to watch.
After a 30 minute intermission, the Stifel Theatre turned into an incense induced dream state. It was time for Young the Giant. A smoky green haze filled the room as the band played out “Oblivion.” From the moment lead singer, Sameer Gadhia, began to sing, the room transformed and the mystical experience started rolling on. After hits like “Something to Believe In” and “Apartment,” the crowd was locked in. The band floated between their classic hits and songs off of their newest album, Mirror Master, but the crowd sang and danced along through all of it. After screaming along to the lyrics of “Cough Syrup” the crowd softened and Gadhia whirled through “Call Me Back” and left the theatre in an 80s eclectic dream.
For an encore packed with energy, the band picked a couple crowd favorites to finish the night with. “Superposition” “Tightrope” and “Silvertongue” played out as the entire theatre swelled, leading perfectly into a very anticipated “My Body.” Accompanied by shaking strobes, hazy fog, and the type of atmosphere that can only be described as “straight from an indie movie,” Young the Giant brought their A-game to St. Louis. The band has been playing for 10 years, and it shows. Gandhia’s live vocals were strong, sultry, and addicting. 105.7 The Point brought a powerhouse for their first HO HO Show of the month.
