Not being one for the traditional, a performance on the same stage by two of the more successful musical exports from Austin, yielded a more preferred option for the 4th of July. Sans lyrics, both the Octopus Project and Explosions In The Sky still manage to hold my attention with their performances, and with a sold out show this night, one would assume that many others feel the same way.

The past few years of constant touring and festival appearances show well as the Octopus Project beat and bleep their way through a sweaty set that proved as much a fan favorite as the headlining act. It’s hard not to find yourself bobbing along as the band shows their skill on the collection of electronic equipment that rivals some of the biggest electronic bands in existence, while still incorporating the traditional guitars and drums. Don’t forget about the always impressive theremin handling by the lovely Yvonne.

Celebrating 10 years in existence as a band, Explosions In The Sky took the stage to a slow intro and balls dropping into the crowd, launching into a set the flowed seamless and brought wave upon wave of sweeping guitars. All eyes of the sweat drenched crowd fixated on the band that dances with their instruments as they move in unison with the sounds they create. Here’s to 10 more years for both bands.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, July 7th, 2009 at 5:37 pm and is filed under austin bands, live shots.