PVRIS live at O2 Shepherds Bush, London, May 2017
A friend describes PVRIS (pronounced as Paris) as “…. pretty much the hottest band out now and the world is going bonkers for them...”
The American three-piece played two sold-out UK shows at O2 Shepherds Bush Empire before embarking on a US tour with music icons, Muse and Thirty Seconds to Mars. PVRIS released their début album ‘White Noise’ in 2014 and has a new album due on the 4th of August 2017, titled “All We Know of Heaven, All We Need of Hell”.
Prides, a Scottish indie band from Glasgow opened Thursday night and by the time PVRIS started at 9.15PM the anticipation was tangible. The lights finally dimmed and band members Brian MacDonald (bass), Alex Babinski (guitar & keyboard) and touring drummer Justin Nace entered the stage over the deafening sound of the screaming teenagers. This reached top volume when vocalist, Lynn Gunn (Lindsey Gunnulfsen) came on. PVRIS began their show with their hit “You and I”.
Fans (referred to as the CVLT) are a young eclectic bunch and sang along to every word giving the impression that every song is a favourite. The sound was multifarious and pure dynamite with the band cleverly utilising a collection of keyboards and synthesisers, amongst the more traditional rock-based guitars, bass and drums to produce a tight blend of electronic alternative rock. Comparisons are made between PVRIS and Paramore due to some vaguely alike sounding songs and the female vocals, but they are very undeniably different in their musical and lyrical context.
Gunn’s voice is unflawed. Dark and passionate, yet with an underlying softness which makes it quite unique. In an industry where women are often overlooked, the representation of such breath-taking talent in alternative music was refreshing to witness.
Overall the set list consisted of 11 songs mostly of their album ‘White Noise’ and two songs from their upcoming album, “Heaven” and “Half” made its live début.
I have no doubt that this was a memorable night for all of their fans, as well as those who have followed the group's musical careers from the start.
Set List
You and I
Fire
Mirrors
Holy
White Noise - stripped
Ghosts - stripped
Smoke
Half – live début
St. Patrick
Encore:
Heaven – live début
My House
for www.gigjunkies.com