Alternative rock band Blue October brought their I Hope You’re Happy tour to Sacramento this weekend with a raucous, sold-out show at Ace of Spades. Crowd excitement was palpable before doors even opened, a large line of enthusiastic fans snaking around the venue. Upon entering the venue, the scope of Blue October’s reach was evident. Listeners across ages and backgrounds gathered at Ace of Spades; several young children sat with their parents, eagerly awaiting the band at the barricade. They were not disappointed. The entirety of Blue October brought an infectiously joyous energy to the stage, feeding off the crowd’s energy during “I Want It,” and “Sway”.
Blue October’s musical prowess was evident, yet it was the sincerity of lead singer Justin Furstenfeld that imbued the show with an almost otherworldly intensity. Furstenfeld, who has made no secret of his own struggles (from custody battles to addiction to suicide), maintained that transparency, breaking a barrier with the audience from which most performers would shy away. Midway through the show, Furstenfeld gave an impassioned monologue about his struggles with depression and anxiety. Along with the swelling piano played in the background, Furstenfeld’s fervent demeanor and an audience that was almost frenzied in its approval, the spectacle was akin to that of a preacher and his congregation. He concluded with “you know what happens every time I try? Listen to this: It always works out.” The band immediately transitioned to “Into the Ocean,” a performance that was nothing short of magical. Light engulfed the stage and audience, as fans sang along to every word of the personal, emotional song. Furstenfeld, voice breaking, cried out, “You have no idea how beautiful you are.”
The remainder of the show, including a rousing rendition of “I Hope You’re Happy” and an acoustic version of crowd favorite “Hate Me,” was encompassed by Furstenfeld’s statement. Band and audience, though unaware of it, brought out a beauty in each other that made for what was an achingly moving (and unendingly fun) live performance.
By: Dana Jacobs | Exclusively for @Music, Why Not! | All Rights Reserved |
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