Animal Collective takes over The Music Box Village

Avey Tare of Animal Collective

The Music Box Village has hosted many memorable performances since settling in their permanent location in 2016, but last weekend’s pair of Animal Collective shows may take the cake for creating the most out-there music in The Village.  Over two sold-out nights, the band unveiled all new music created specifically for the Music Box Village and delivered a truly unique experience for those lucky enough to score tickets.

The band moved into the space over a week ago to write music that utilized the Village’s instruments and rehearse with some local musicians.  The resulting compositions ranged from blissful ambiance to chaotic explosions, with a healthy dose of hooks that managed to bubble to the surface amidst the organized noise.  The distinctive croons of Avey Tare and Deakin carried some beautiful melodies while Geologist crafted endlessly fascinating digital landscapes from his console.

Deakin of Animal Collective

The band was joined by virtuosic cellist Helen Gillet, shape-shifting chanteuse Aurora Nealand, and percussionist Marion Tortorich, adding some interesting acoustic components to the band’s otherwise electronic soundscapes.  These local ladies are some of the most forward-thinking musicians in the city and they definitely played active roles in the new music. New Orleans is chock full of some of the most incredible musicians in the world, and it’s great to see touring artists collaborate with some of our homegrown talent.

The crowd was enraptured throughout the entire show and willing to follow the band down any trippy rabbit hole they wanted to explore.  For a band that has never shyed away from experimental approaches to their art, The Music Box Village is a natural playground for them to expand the scope of their musical vision.  In only a short time, The Music Box Village has established itself as one of the most unique music venues in town and has managed to attract some of the most exciting artists in the world.  If last weekend was any indication, expect to see many more exciting performances at this one-of-a-kind space.

Animal Collective