GAINESVILLE, Fla. – It wasn’t until 2007 that I was turned onto the dynamic duo that is Tegan and Sara, but it’s safe to say I can describe my life as before T/S and after T/S. They are my most formidable band obsession to date. You know, the “healthy-type” obsession that requires buying all albums and DVDs, becoming obligatory “friends” on MySpace, joining the fan forum and ultimately, topping it off with a live performance. They’ve been labeled as pop, indie, alternative and even punk, but I just call them “FANtastic.”
Unfortunately, for me, I had just missed a string of fall 2007 shows, so I had to wait six months for my next opportunity. I decided that seeing the twin sisters and accompanying three-member band in New York City would seal the deal.
My expectations were high, and from the opening number, “Dark Come Soon,” I knew I would not travel 1,000 miles home disappointed. As they powerfully churned out a blend of melodic songs, mostly from “The Con” and “So Jealous,” it was apparent that these two are simply experts at playing live. With near perfect harmonizing, raw emotion surging from both singers and the occasional hilarious banter, it’s hard not to enjoy a Tegan and Sara show. I appreciated the subtle alterations of songs and hearing the improved natural progressions that tend to accompany relentless touring.
... [T]hese ladies also have a rare and special ability to connect with the audience. With a knack for playing guitar and keyboards, these ladies also have a rare and special ability to connect with the audience. You get the sense they are genuinely happy to talk – to the crowd or the band – in between songs, to catch everyone up on their day or to offer a glimpse into the lives of two extremely talented and funny musicians.
This show sold out months in advance, and I worried that the artist/audience intimacy would be lost among the 3,000 other attendees, but that proved to be nonsense. An hour and a half later, when the lights resurfaced and a very satisfied crowd started to disperse, my only hope was that another six months wouldn’t pass before seeing them again.
Videos from the Terminal 5 show in on May 12, 2008, in New York City:
"The Con"
"Walking with a Ghost"
"Call It Off" (banter and video)
Starling Sawyer, a TheSequitur.com contributor, is a director for the University of Florida Alumni Association.
I was at that show, it was sooooo good. Your videos came out great. I was afraid to go up to the balconies because I didn't think the sound would be as good. Maybe the venue wasn't as bad as it was made out to be...or T&S are just that amazing and make any place sound better. Thanks for sharing!
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