I think it’s amazing to me how intimate The Fratellis can make a show feel in a larger venue. I’m not sure what it was about this particular show; it was packed all the way to the back of the bar in The Regency Ballroom last Sunday night. But something felt special about it. Maybe it was because the band is didn’t rely on any kind of gimmicks and just lets their music speak for itself. Pyrotechnics, CO2 tanks, and confetti were absent, and in place were heartfelt, fun indie/rock songs that the fans could appreciate. The audience members sing and dance when the band plays, and then quiet down almost immediately in between songs.
The Fratellis (comprised of Jon Fratelli on guitar/vocals, Barry Fratelli on bass, and Mince Fratelli on drums) played a surprisingly packed set list at this show. It was great to see this, because it guaranteed that the fans were given their money’s worth. The material traversed the three-piece band’s four album discography. Some songs were a little more laid back than others, while some opened up the dance floor. And of course, when the band played their second to last song, “Chelsea Dagger” an eruption of voices resonated throughout the venue, as they sang along to that classic hook that made their fans fall in love with them several years ago.
As much as I love theatricality in music, sometimes you don’t need it. Sometimes all you need is a band, like The Fratellis, to come out and play a show with the songs stripped down to the bare essentials: the drums, the guitars, and the voice. No big tech productions, no mountainous guitar rigs or double bass drum kits. Just a few instruments, great musicianship, and good times.
This has been another Shameless Promotion.