Geordie Greep: A Captivating Night of Crooner Antics and Musical Brilliance at Portland’s Aladdin Theater
When Geordie Greep dropped the bombshell announcement of Black Midi’s disbandment last year, it sent shockwaves through the music community. The band, known for their intricate math rock sound and rising popularity, seemed to be on an unstoppable trajectory. Yet, Greep’s solo venture soon emerged as a beacon of creativity, showcasing his eclectic artistry in his debut album, The New Sound. This aptly titled collection signaled a transformation, one that opened doors to a broader audience—far beyond the original Black Midi fanbase.
A Sold-Out Experience
On May 9th, Greep brought his innovative tour to Portland, Oregon, filling the historic Aladdin Theater with eager fans. The energy was palpable from the moment the band took the stage, launching into the enthralling title track from The New Sound. With a performance described as a sensory overload, Greep and his talented bandmates played at dizzying speeds, leaving even the most seasoned prog-rock lovers in awe.
The Man Behind the Madness
As frontman, Greep captivated the audience not just through his guitar work but also by adopting a unique stage presence. Often turning his back to the crowd in a flourish reminiscent of a mad maestro, he showcased his remarkable guitar solos while morphing into a crooner for several songs. For instance, during the gentle tune “Walk Up,” he ditched his guitar to serenade the audience, embodying the essence of a retro lounge singer.
Dressed in a relaxed, baggy suit, reminiscent of a mid-century beatnik, Greep sipped coffee as he reveled in the limelight, ensuring every moment was filled with charisma. This theatricality reached a peak when the first notes of “Terra” ignited cheers from the crowd. Here, Greep channeled his inner lounge singer, supported by his band’s Moog-infused jazz-prog sounds, intertwining bursts of drums and percussion.
A Journey Through Sound
One of the most striking elements of the performance was the seamless transition between light-hearted melodies and intense, mind-bending instrumentals. The band’s take on Willie Colón’s "Oh Qué Será?," featuring a stunning Latin jazz rendition sung by percussionist Santiago Moyano, provided a mesmerizing contrast to Greep’s Santana-like Bossa Nova guitar solos.
The poignant “As If Waltz” struck a theatrical note with its gentle piano, while tracks like “Holy, Holy” took the audience on a rollercoaster, showcasing Greep’s electrifying solos amidst complex time signatures. This juxtaposition of styles—a blend of driving funk and intricate lunacy—created an exhilarating atmosphere, with enthusiastic fans bouncing along to every beat.
An Unforgettable Performance
For the fans who grasped Greep’s unique vision, the performance was nothing short of revelatory. Although some attendees may have found the sprawling nature of the songs challenging, it underscored Greep’s originality as an artist. The excitement peaked during the concert’s closing moments with “Bongo Season,” a trippy tune that washed over the audience, culminating in the grand finale of “The Magician.”
This performance reassured both die-hard fans and newcomers alike: Greep’s evolution post-Black Midi has not only satiated his artistic cravings but has also set the stage for an exciting future.
The Road Ahead for Greep
At just 25 years old, Greep is already a notable artist with an ever-expanding repertoire. While Friday’s show may not have boasted the unpredictable twists and turns characteristic of acts like King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, it was abundantly clear that Greep is carving out his place as a forward-thinking live performer.
This tour serves as a proving ground for his evolving sound, and the Portland audience left buzzing with anticipation for what Greep will unleash next. With each note and quirky rendition, he has firmly established himself as a wild live act to watch—one that promises to push the boundaries of musicality further in his forthcoming endeavors.
For more insights about the newest musical talents, check out Pitchfork and NPR Music.
