A few days ago we posted about the arrival of arguably the world’ most popular “indie” band to our neighborhood. Arcade Fire announced two last minute shows under the moniker “The Reflektors” at relatively unknown venue, former sheet metals and plastic factory, 299 Meserole Avenue (where both we at Bushwick Daily and Bang On! have hosted parties in the past). While excited, there was an overwhelming concern that washed us over once the dust settled– primarily it seemed no one was able to get tickets. While tickets were selling for anywhere between $150-$5000 (!!!) on various scalping websites, we were able to get in.
The show we encountered was just a little bit out of the dichotomy of the Reflektor world, full of all sorts of surprises (masks! costumes! trickery! magic?), a setlist packed full of brand new songs, a special appearance from LCD Soundsystem’s James Murphy, and a sublime level of peculiarity that you don’t find at many shows these days. It was definitely an experience.
Upon arrival at 299 Meserole, there was a line that snaked three blocks to Bushwick Ave and then down an additional block. This wasn’t your average line either; the ticket purchase came with a required formal/costume attire requirement. And boy did people go all out- it was like Halloween, except a really classy version. Tuxedos, Grecian gowns, the occasional Meth-cook costume, and much facepaint dotted the line to the masquerade concert. Concert goers were buzzing with excitement, and there was a level of anxiety in the air surrounding the sheer surrealness of the show’s understated advertising and enormous hype- was it really happening?
