Two years ago, when I stumbled upon Chromeo at the Rothbury Music festival, they completely satisfied my 80s electro-dance beat longing. I listened to Fancy Footwork (Vice) on repeat for three months straight—admiring Dave 1’s sultry voice, P-Thugg’s kick-ass talk box and the way they moved me to dance. I made it a point to see the duo live whenever I had the chance, and by summer 2010 my Chromeo fixation was at its peak as I anticipated the October release of Business Casual (Vice). I found myself constantly watching the “Night by Night” video on YouTube, wishing I was the one Dave 1 was spinning around the room. When I actually heard the album, however, my interest in Chromeo began to wane. The album wasn’t bad, exactly, it was just…the same. I was disappointed that their sound had not progressed. I felt the same way about Chromeo’s performance at the House of Blues on Feb. 3.
The show was typical Chromeo – Dave 1 in a leather jacket and leather pants, P-Thugg in army green behind their instruments, which were propped up on glowing lady legs. They played the same songs they always play—“Bonafied Lovin’,” “Fancy Footwork,” “Tenderoni.” While it was a pleasure to hear these classics, I found myself wishing Chromeo was a more dynamic band. They are so deeply rooted in their 80s electro niche that there is not much room for evolution. Most bands, even if they do not improvise, have some variation live that is distinct from their albums. Chromeo does not. They merely play their albums in front of a live audience.
While the show was predictable, as a true Chromeo fan I still enjoyed it. “Mama’s Boy” from their first album, She’s In Control (Vice), was a standout hit. Everyone in the audience seemed to welcome the song by singing along and busting out some ridiculous dance moves. In addition, Chromeo played “Hot Mess,” “Don’t Turn the Lights Out” and “Night by Night” from their most recent album. These songs were a welcome addition to a routine setlist. Overall, the show was enjoyable but not outstanding. I may have to turn elsewhere for a more forward-thinking 80s duo.
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