Of Monsters And Men

One of our favourite bands made a rare appearance in our area, namely Icelandic folk group Of Monsters And Men. Even when they do play within a few hour radius, it's generally a large three-day Fest of sorts. To my delight, not only were they appearing at a relatively local venue (Detroit), but at an old and large architectural marvel (Detroit Masonic Temple) that would surely make for a memorable show.

Accompanied by Dora and her friend Mike, we made the short tunnel jaunt under the Detroit River and made our way to Harry's for a quick dinner before the show. Apparently the manager hadn't factored in the OMAM show and understaffed the place.....drinks were slow, food was slower, and we got the last burgers in the place, which thankfully were wicked, and more than good enough to make up for the wait.

Ironically, the somewhat sketchy area around Harry's and up to the Masonic Temple is where the new Detroit Arena and surrounding urban revitalization is taking place - a massive development dubbed District Detroit - which will definitely make this a happening (and safer) place by 2017.

On to the show! The Masonic Temple did not disappoint, a grand old building with character and atmosphere, the likes of which are sadly diminishing. We had great seats in the upper mezzanine, far above the packed main floor, where standing room only looked pretty tight.

Words don't really describe the band. OMAM brought the magic - a total of NINE band members playing multiple instruments, at times soulful, at times tribal, and at all times full of folky goodness. Easily one of the best concerts I have seen - sure, the great venue helps, but they put on a fabulous show and if you're a music fan then this is a band for you.

They played all the popular and upbeat hits off the first album, "My Head is an Animal", while seamlessly blending in the more mellow offerings from the new record "Beneath the Skin" without losing momentum. Nanna even offered a particularly moving solo rendition of "Organs".

Great show, capped off by making it safely back to Canada without getting capped.

Pre-Show Burgers at Harry's

Detroit Masonic Temple

Of Monsters and Sam Adams

Iceland's Finest

The Masonic Theatre

OMAM!

Standing Room Only!

Now to get out alive....