On Friday night, southern Californian band Something Corporate gave a spectacular performance, along with opening act the Red West, helping WRGW kick off its 75th anniversary weekend in front of a sold-out crowd of about 500 people in the Marvin Center Grand Ballroom.
The crowd included a variety of music fans, mainly groups of college students varying from punk rockers to basic emo fans. But, truth be told, the majority of fans were high school girls who looked like they hadn’t yet hit Sweet 16.
The Red West, longtime friends of Something Corporate, opened the show with strong confidence. Formed in 2001 at Biola University, located in southern California, the band released a self-titled album back in fall 2003 and has been consistently touring throughout their home state since then. Friday was the band’s first performance on the east coast and fans appeared unfamiliar with its songs, not responding well to the harder sound that contrasted with SoCo. But with lead singer Jayson Belt at the helm, the Red West persevered, playing such songs as “Crazy Cold” and “Don’t Fall In” that exhibit real potential.
After West, the much anticipated Something Corporate appeared ready to perform. The pop-rock quartet didn’t miss a note, proving why its live shows have increased the band’s rank in the music world. The energy coming off the stage was incredible. To accompany McMahon’s true and sincere lyrics, guitar players Josh Partington and William Tell provided a rock sound that evens out the band’s composition.
SoCo is currently on a six-show promotional tour for its latest album, North, released in October. It has already eclipsed sales of the band’s first record, Leaving Through the Window, and it seems as though the band’s nonstop touring is beginning to bear the fruits of success.
On Friday, SoCo allowed the GW audience to sample songs off both albums but concentrated most of its set list from Leaving Through the Window, including its biggest commercial hit, “If You C Jordan.” Fans reacted well to the first single off North, “Space,” and also seemed to enjoy two other new tracks, “21 and Invincible” and “Me and The Moon.”
For people who purchased the new album that day, the band signed autographs after the concert.
“It was great. We had blast. I think the energy was really there tonight. Playing a college was awesome. It was great to come out and play,” McMahon said.
After the performance, freshman Mallory Howard summed up the night: “Everyone knew every word, and everyone was psyched they were here. They really played off the crowd’s energy.”
