The Brits came back! Kaiser Chiefs played El Rey Theater in Los Angeles Tuesday night in support of their forthcoming album Education, Education, Education, and War. Throughout the show, frontman Ricky Wilson took it upon himself to perform, perform, perform and more-– which he was certainly entitled to do. Being in the business for over thirteen years has not only built a loyal following, but it also brought the indie rockers to ultimate veteran status.
Nowadays, the Chiefs emit the perfect blend of class and sass, especially on Wilson’s part. His swift hip shakes and eye rolls playfully engage the crowd with a feisty flare. He interacts further, forcing them to clap along to “Coming Home.” Though they sample a large portion of their new music in the set, classic tunes like “I Predict a Riot” and “Ruby” bring home the bacon that feeds the eager beast of a crowd, filling the modest venue’s dance floor. It gets even more fun when he scales to the top of the rafters to the side of the stage like a monkey.
The best part of the main set, however, is ending with their album’s first sneak of a release. First, Wilson stops between jams to lecture the audience. He addresses the elephant in the room head-on, stating that the fans have not been able to sing along to most of the songs because they are currently unreleased. Next, he faithfully commissions everyone in the room to belt out the chorus of the single “Misery Company.” Luckily, he warns that the entire hook is comprised of laughter, so there is no excuse to remain silent during the song. Fans cackle away the rest of the song which instantly fills the room with delight.
Indeed, Kaiser Chiefs are an extremely successful group. They have maintained a growing fanbase for over a decade, and they devotedly repay their fans with catchy new music. Wilson is taking on yet another host-like role, joining the coach team on the UK’s TV program The Voice. With the excitement generated for their album set to release in March of this year, there is no doubt that 2014 has a lot in store for the Kaiser Chiefs. Keep up with tour and band updates here.
Set List
The Factory Gates
Everything Is Average Nowadays
Everyday I Love You Less and Less
Little Shocks
Coming Home
Modern Way
Ruffians on Parade
You Can Have It All
Never Miss a Beat
Bows & Arrows
I Predict a Riot
Ruby
Misery Company
The Angry Mob
Encore
Cannons
Oh My God
Leave a Comment