Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti Live at Kiss and Fly SXSW

This one is hard to pin down. Ariel Pink and the moniker he’s most commonly known for, Ariel Pink’s Haunted Graffiti, is an intriguing blend of freak folk, alt rock and indie pop. Pink largely stands motionless as he performs, hiding his eyes behind sunglasses. His band picks up the rest, some doubling on keyboards and guitars. The crowd was ecstatic to hear Pink perform (this was an exclusive performance at this VICE/Noisey.com showcase), and often danced so hard they nearly pogo moshed. From a high vantage point, Pink could be seen occasionally pulling a lighter out of his pocket and flicking it to take a quick look at the flame. Curious behavior, but this is a curious act. Still, an upbeat good time all-in-all, and there’s nothing wrong with that.