Interpol didn’t live up to expectations in their Wednesday night Agganis Arena appearance — they shattered them. The foursome from New York City captivated fans at the venue and proved, at least to Boston, that they are indeed worth the hype.
Opening with Our Love to Admire’s “Pioneers to the Falls,” Interpol showcased the smooth intensity that is its trademark. Daniel Kessler’s echoing guitar gave way to Paul Banks’s low, bellowing voice before the song exploded into an medley of chiming guitars, steady drums and a strong bass line.
From the beginning, Interpol established itself as a band more about the musical experience than about its own ego, often standing silhouetted against harsh lights and colorful screens, their faces obscured.
Still, those in the audience looking for the traditional arena rock show were slightly disappointed.
Despite playing an arena, Interpol still played as if it were in a small club. It is easy for bands to lose control of their sound in an expansive venue like Agganis that (let’s be honest) was never built with concerts in mind. However, Interpol used the space to give their music room to unfold. Its lush sonic landscapes were hypnotic and left the audience dazed.
The performance showcased each member of the band on top of his game: Paul Banks has never looked or sounded better, trading his formerly monotonous vocals for impassioned singing. Running the emotional gamut from lust (“Narc”) to anger (“Mammoth”), Banks defied those who have labeled him a carbon copy of Joy Division’s Ian Curtis.
Sam Fogarino (drums) provided the pounding heartbeat of each song as Carlos Dengler (bass) played fast and furious.
While the complexity of songs like “Pace is the Trick” entranced the audience, others weren’t as successful. During “PDA,” backing vocals got lost in a chaotic, encompassing melee of guitars and drums.
Interpol had a lot to prove as they stepped on the stage, and despite some imperfections delivered to the audience a sound that has matured since their last appearance in Boston, willing to give an intimate and genuine show in the midst of reclaiming itself and forging ahead toward a promising future.
