Explosions In The Sky

+ Eluvium

Academy 1, Manchester - 29 Jan 2008

by Jon Drake

Greatness in humility

"Eyes closed and lost in their own world, the Texan four-piece embark on a marathon hour and a half set shrouded in smoke and lasers. "

There are some bands in this world who proclaim themselves to be the greatest band in the world. Most of the time there are egos the size of Brazil involved and they are in fact only a very good band. Then there are the bands on the other end of the scale who are truly great bands but just go about their lives doing what they do best. Making amazing music.

Leaving you to make your own minds up for examples of the first type of band mentioned above, tonight Manchester is playing host to two of the later type of band. Entering the near capacity Academy tonight (the gig's venue was up sized due to demand) the atmosphere is confusing at first. The audience is attentive, shrouded in smoke and blue light but appear to be staring at an empty stage. Upon closer inspection the huddled shape of Eluvium can be made out almost off stage.

Alternating between guitar, piano and an i book he fills the Aacdemy with ambient sounds building them to pulsing cacophonies, entrancing the audience who soak it all in in a way you wouldn't expect for a support act.

When Explosions In The Sky arrive on stage, it is to deafening applause. Humbley they begin with an apology given by guitarist Munaf Rayani. They had to cancel a show last year and clearly feel bad about it. Apology given and seemingly accepted by an eager crowd, they fall silent and leave it to the music.

Eyes closed and lost in their own world, the Texan four piece embark on a marathon hour and a half set shrouded in smoke and lasers. So involved are the band that the show has a jam like feel to it with all members ending up crouched on the stage leaving drummer Chris Hraskey looking alone but content.

Moving towards the back of the crowd, we find the show just as entertaining. The band can be seen moving out of sync with each other as they combine their efforts to form one fluid sound. They bring the show to an end with a simple "Thanks for your time, we're Explosions In The Sky" leaving the stage as unasumingly as they took to it. Every aspect of this show has been aimed at the crowd, even down to the free poster given out with t;shirt purchases. So hooked are they on the performance that a chorus of boos erupts when the house lights come up forcing them reluctantly into the streets.

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