THE MOSS TRANSFORMS THE TROUBADOUR
THE TROUBADOUR — LOS ANGELES, CA
This was a massive week for music in Los Angeles, with Coachella preparations to various pop-up shows and everything in between. However, all eyes were locked in on The Moss as they brought their spring tour to a sold-out Troubadour.
After making it through the line of fans desperate to buy a last-minute ticket, you were met by a sea of people lining the walls of the building. The energy was palpable, perfectly matching the magical feeling that the iconic venue encompasses. A stage covered with vibrant green foliage, warm-toned lights, and the fluorescent blue hue of the Troubadour sign acting as the moon – it felt as if we had been transported into the woods themselves.
LA’s very own Rec Hall opened up the night with their signature surf-synth sound that perfectly encapsulates the essence of California. There’s a unique energy when a group is performing in their hometown, and the joy was radiating off of the trio as they played. A set list armed with songs such as "Pontiac" and "Delay" had the never-ending mass of people pulsating in unison. I found myself wondering if the nearly 70-year-old wooden floors of the Troubadour would collapse under the weight. The group ended the set with a crowd favorite, “She Doesn’t Get It,” and had successfully laid the groundwork for The Moss to make their entrance.
The overhead lights dimmed, leaving only the sounds of birds chirping and water trickling to be heard. It was as if we had been transported away from the noise of LA and into The Moss’s own personal oasis. The tranquility only lasted mere seconds before the eruption of cheers broke out as The Moss emerged. The night started with "Chaparral", a funky, high-spirited track that accurately represents the dynamic of the group. Each song builds off the last, with frontman Tyke James bouncing from one end of the stage to another before he immerses himself into the crowd.
With one surprise after another, there was no anticipating what would come next. We were met with a family reunion when James’ sister joined the stage, armed with her violin. Soon after, the band made their exit, leaving the crowd of 500 fans chanting for more. James succumbs to the cheers by returning with a solo, acoustic set. It was astounding to watch the singer captivate the room in a way only a few could. It was possible to hear a pin drop with no one daring to make a sound, simply appreciating the vocalist in front of them.
The night came to a close when the group rejoined for a chaotic performance of "Dog Valley". The stage was left in complete disarray, with holes left in the drum skins and instruments strung about. A true testament to the energy they had put into their performance. Long after the music had ended, groups were still gathered under the disco balls, dancing in pure bliss. A perfect depiction of the feeling The Moss leaves you with.
