Written by Bill Whiting
Walk the Moon’s second homecoming show had the in demand Cincinnati area quartet sharing the stage with the California group, Young the Giant at a sold out Madison Theater on February 24. It was a strong double bill that gave fans more bang for their buck. Walk the Moon released their debut disc I want I want in November of 2010. The ensemble has a stirring presence onstage with an abundancy of bouyant energy balanced by expert musicianship. The percolating rhythm section of Kevin Ray on bass and Sean Waugaman on drums keeps the staccato dance grooves moving at a rapid pace. Eli Maiman’s guitar lines and backing vocals add another layer to Walk the Moon’s richly textured sonic sound. And, Nicholas Petricca’s lead singing and intricate synthesizer work gave a sharp edge to the hits “Anna Sun” and “Tightrope.” Overall, Walk the Moon put on one of the best sets of 2012 so far. Young the Giant’s return to Cincinnati behind their January, 2010 self titled debut was a roof shaking experience. Bolstered by the dual guitar attack of Jacob Tilley and Eric Cannata, Young the Giant had the crowd in the palm of their hands as they sang together in unison on “I Got” and “Islands.” The tight rhythmic interplay between drummer Francois Comtois and bassist Payam Doostzadeh drove the barn burning anthems “Apartment” and “My Body.” Charismatic front man Sameer Gadhia closed the deal, uniting audience and band together as one on the radio friendly pop rock nugget, “Cough Syrup.” It was a dramatic evening from two young and dynamic up and coming forces in American music. Let’s hope both Walk the Moon and Young the Giant return to the Cincinnati stage again soon.
