As I walked into The Spanish Moon on Saturday night, the chemistry and amplitude of the Young Rivals’ musical sound struck me like a whiff of fresh air.
While certainly carrying a familiar indie-rock sound in recognition of peers and past innovators, Rivals seemed more in control and aware than many of their peers. The chorus-effected guitar was lush, but not consuming, while the bass and drums weren’t too low or too high in the mix, which helped Aron D’Alesio’s voice become near instrumental.
Lyrics were lost to the rhythm and crowd full of first time listeners, but the uplifting current of each song was more than necessary to carry to completion.
I specifically enjoyed the vibrancy of “Interior Light,” which is reminiscent of all the good elements of 2000s rock, but has a lack of nostalgia for that time, simply paraphrasing that energy for effect.
As Born Ruffians hit the floor, girls started freaking out to the main act’s sound.
The combined energy from both parties was en masse, songs were played straight and narrow, but pushed compassion through the room. Most verses and choruses were easy going, decipherable and poppy — good sounds for the twenty-something crowd either in love or falling out of it.
Each song was snappy and felt spring-loaded with crystal clear dynamics, readily accessible for passing interest or obsession.
“We made It” is an excellent example of simple pop temerity. Luke Lalonde sings “One day I’m gonna make it, fake it till you make it” with a phrasing that sparks determinism in the listener’s heart.
Like magic, the band settled down into a brand new slow song during the encore, and ended on a faster number because it sat better with the crowd.
Overall, the concert was a mixture of well-played rock and roll, and good vibes from its audience.

Gallery • 12 Photos

Ari Ross

Young Rival's Noah Fralick drums during their show on Nov. 8, 2015, at the Spanish Moon.