The energy inside Elemental Experience had completely changed by the time Pinback got on stage. It was growing darker, colder, and the crowd had become much, much more intoxicated. I was getting the vibe that this crowd didn’t just want to merely listen to music. These people were interested only in being moved by it.

The sound system had gone bust right before the show, prolonging the wait, making everyone frustrated with anticipation. But by first song, Pinback began stroking their keys creating techo-buzzery and softly strumming their strings, sending us back into the euphoria that seemed to be slipping away.

Light tapping from the drummer was the perfect touch to top off the low, whispering vocals, and as the band members released the softest, sweetest music I had heard all day, we the crowd were transported into the clouds. People didn’t dance, or scream, but swayed, back and forth, eyes shut, in almost trance-like serenity.

Yeah, Pinback will do that to you.

I could have completely gotten lost in the moment. I could have surrendered myself to their psychedelic and meditative artistry. I could have been sent into flight. But the song would end way too fast, and Pinback would break the spell they had put me under only to dump head first into a totally different one.

Songs like “Loro” and “From Nothing to Nowhere” are incredibly intoxicating. It’s the type of soft, alternative rock that is so edgy, so original, so profoundly melodic, you keep the CD on repeat – for months. I likened this experience with my first time every hearing The Shins. While the two group’s hushed vocals are similar, Pinback is darker, more exhilarative, less preppy and much more grungy. Pinback sounds like Nirvana after heavy dose of sedatives, but instead of making you feel their angst, they introduce you to total peace and acceptance.

I wanted an encore but my spiritual journey had to be stunted by scheduling. As I and the crowd slowly came out of our reverie, a renewed energy filled the air. Pinback had united everyone who heard them play, transforming a bunch of drunken strangers into one big happy family.

Ahh – now this is what music festivals are all about.


Photo Credit: www.karhton.com