If LA had its Michael Jackson “moment” this weekend, it came surprisingly at the end of a concert by five French indie rock musicians. As Phoenix wrapped up their triumphant performance, and the houselights slowly came up onto the Wiltern theater, the thousand-plus crowd, with energy already piqued from the band’s deafeningly loud set, were treated to “Rock With You”—played at full volume. Rather than dutifully head for the exits, the revelers began cheering and dancing, a spontaneous tribute/dance party in a Sunday night. A second MJ song followed, but was cut short as no doubt some jaded venue manager decided it was time for everyone to go. But it was the perfect and unexpected end to a night that had already exceeded all reasonable expectations, with a band that has far surpassed their potential.
Anticipation was already high before Phoenix took the stage. Rumors about lead singer Thomas Mars’s health and did-they-or-didn’t-they cancel last night’s show were soon put to rest when the Paris-based quartet stormed the stage and unleashed a frenzy of highly addictive indie pop gems.
Mars was in fine form, alternatively brooding and cavaliering across the stage, ever the heartthrob as he summoned his own version of gritty passion for fan favorite “Napoleon Says” and perennial live classic “Run.” For a skinny guy with a tucked in button-down, Mars’s distinctive, swoon-inducing voice and humbled demeanor is commanding and genuine.
Phoenix is a band in full bloom as they roll out their quirky charm, French fashion, and
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