Show Review: The Helio Sequence @ the Common Grounds

Being a huge fan of The Helio Sequence and their latest release on Sub Pop Records entitled, Keep Your Eyes Ahead, I had pretty high expectations for my first encounter with the duo’s live set.

Before heading out to the show I tried to gather my thoughts and put my expectations in check, as to not be disappointed if the group could not meet my high standards. Their album has some pretty tight production and I had to remind myself that the crisp sounds may be tough to duplicate live on stage. Especially with only two people on stage to make all the music.

While hanging out toward the back of the main room at Common Grounds in Gainesville, Florida, I saw Brandon Summers (vocals, guitar) walk by. He looked exhausted and like he needed a hug.  For some reason I had a bad feeling that I was going to be extremely disappointed by the set. I’d been looking forward to the evening for weeks and really felt like I had set my hopes too high.

However, the bad feeling was nothing more than a bad read.  From the first notes I was in heaven. The Helio Sequence was way better live than I ever could have imagined. With the help of some modern technology and some badass musical skills, the duo was able to perfectly mimic the sound of their album, and in my opinion actual surpass it in quality. Nothing impresses me more than a group that sounds amazing on their album and can outdo themselves with their live set.

Summers was fairly stoic on stage. He probably spoke a maximum of 5 words to the crowd. However, the set did not really need any extras as the music spoke for itself.  While some artists use witty banter and dialogue to draw the crowd in, Summers’ voice was the sole source providing intrigue and charm.

Also captivating the crowd was Benjamin Weikel on drums.  He pounded away with a fury, like his life depended on it, throughout the entire set. His skill and dedication was quite captivating to watch, as were his facial expressions.

Throughout the night, the songs that received the most response seemed to be off of their latest release, Keep Your Eyes Ahead. The title track off of the album as well as “Can’t Say No” and “Hallelujah” all got big cheers from the crowd, specifically “Hallelujah,” which the group closed down the set with. However, they did return for a 3 song encore, which they kicked off with an acoustic, folk tune entitled “Broken Afternoon”. The song was a beautiful change of pace that really showcased the band’s diversity and talent.

To say I was impressed with The Helio Sequence’s live show would be an extreme understatement.

-Emily

The group still has quite a few tour dates left. If you have the opportunity, be sure you catch these guys live.

Jun 06  -  The Loft  -  Dallas, TX
Jun 07  -  Mohawk  -  Austin, TX
Jun 10  -  Club Congress  -  Tucson, AZ
Jun 11  -  Rhythm Room  -  Phoenix, AZ
Jun 12  -  Echo Plex  -  Los Angeles, CA
Jun 13  -  Soho Restaurant & Music Club  -  Santa Barbara, CA
Jun 14  -  Detriot Bar  -  Costa Mesa, CA
Jun 15  -  Belly Up Tavern  -  Solana Beach, CA
Jun 16  -  The Cellar Door  -  Visalia, CA
Jun 17  -  Slim’s  -  San Francisco, CA