As the week of music festivities came to a climactic end, the sun set on Austin Music Hall; and hundreds of 20-somethings attended Perez Hilton’s 6th Annual One Night in Austin showcase. The lineup promised a diverse group of artists from Wynter Gordon and Charlie XCX to Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Brooke Candy, and even special surprise guest Fall Out Boy.
The night kept a steady quick pace as artists stuck to their hits with short sets. In between bands, DJ Jeffrey Donnesen spun remixes of electro-pop hits from artists like Afrojack, La Roux, and Icona Pop.
Charlie XCX was magical with sporty dance moves, but Capital Cities was by far the first highlight of the night. Looking fresh clad in their typical highlighter yellow blazers across the board, the boys brought a new wave of flare to the stage. They only stayed long enough to play a few songs including a cover of the Bee Gees’ “Staying Alive” which got the entire floor jumping and singing along. After hearing “Safe and Sound,” the night only got better.
Wynter Gordon came to the scene ready to roll, although she did not take the expected pop top 40s route with a full band or DJ backing her singing. An acoustic set was a curious approach, but delightful all the same to hear her take another avenue with her music. Her deep voice vibrated throughout the building. When she played “Dirty Talk,” the buzzing crowd was receptive.
Next up was Lissie who didn’t necessarily present anything new, but still delivered some decent live tunes to perpetuate the night’s light mood. Her slow cover of Kid Cudi’s “Pursuit of Happiness” confused some, but delighted others. The eager audience filled out by the time Paloma Faith went on. Her lively demeanor elated everyone. The entire upper level rose to their feet and sang along. As per usual, Perez delivered a night full of dance, drinks, and fun. Can’t wait to see what his 7th showcase brings to Austin.