PHOTOS: Fitz and The Tantrums, Max Frost, Live at Stubb’s Bar-B-Q, Austin

Playing three shows in Austin during the Austin City Limits Festivities, Fitz and The Tantrums lit up the Stubb’s Waller Creek Amphitheater on Wednesday night. The show served as a benefit for the Waller Creek Conservancy. To open up the night was local talent Max Frost as supporting act of the headliner.

Photos by Nathan Edge

Max Frost being a local recieved quite a bit of immediate affection among walking on stage. He opened with his song “Be Who You Want.” Frost is a very jumpy performer, and the energy on the stage was abundant. His backup singer was so energetic she almost drew in more attention to herself rather than Frost himself. The two combined made for a very appealing stage performance. On top of that, Frosts focus and passion for the music being played was an addition to the well rounded performance. His sound is impeccable, and in songs like “Glow Long” and “Nice and Slow,” his talent really shows. Towards the end of the set he performed a cover of “Roses” by Outkast which got the crowd riled up. He closed his set with his fan favorite “White Lies” and everyone sang along. His dedication for music shined when he put his electric guitar over his acoustic to perform a guitar solo. Frost is really an outstanding performer.

When Fitz and The Tantrums took the stage they were greeted by massive cheers. They opened with their song “Get Away.” Immediately upon walking on stage, the vibe of the crowd lifted. Fitz kept the energy high throughout their whole set. The two lead singers, Michael and Noelle, are outstanding together. Their connection on stage while performing, as well as their interactions with the audience are awesome.

The trumpet and bass in their songs keeps a fun uplifting sound in songs they performed including “Keepin Our Eyes Out.” They stated they hate ‘wallflowers’ in the crowd and encouraged everyone to dance for “Spark.” They covered the song “Sweet Dreams” by Eurythmics which got the audience pumped. Their atmosphere and energy given off as a band is so groovy. They have a contagious sound that grasps you and makes you wanna move to the beats. Their stage presence really works for the band seeing as all the fans were going crazy.

The band showed true appreciation for the love and support the city and fans have given them. During “Last Rain Drop” Noelle’s vocals really stunned the crowd. The group’s encore consisted of their two most popular songs: “Moneygrabber” and “The Walker.” Overall the bands really blows through the roof with their live performance. It was very impressive to see that much talent and passion being shared by six band members and one stage.