Southern California swarmed The Wiltern for their only opportunity of 2021 to spend the evening with German electronic alternative rock band, Milky Chance. Last Tuesday’s show was part of Milky Chance’s Mind the Moon tour promoting their recent album of the same name.
Originally scheduled seven months earlier, the band postponed the event because of the spike in COVID numbers in Los Angeles. As the line for entrance to the venue wound around the heavily-trafficked Wilshire and Oxford city block, the energy of over 1,500 “chancers” radiated in anticipation for this long-awaited experience.
For over three hours, Giant Rooks and Milky Chance captivated the audience with more than just their musical prowess. Giant Rooks, a German indie pop band, quickly “oohed and awed” the crowd because of their natural showmanship and ability to adapt.
GIANT ROOKS at The WILTERN | PHOTO byThomas Ochoa
Although they were missing their drummer due to illness, the performance was not the least bit lacking in any aspect other than the audience wanting more. Singer and stand-in drummer Frederik Rabe’s multifaceted performance impressed everyone. When he apologized for having to fill-in on drums, the audience roared in an outpour of support for the young gentlemen.
GIANT ROOKS at The WILTERN | PHOTO by Debi Del Grande Courtesy of LiveNation
Guitarist Finn Schwieters was easily the audience’s favorite band member of the evening as he let his presence be known onstage. The rhythmic wails belting from his guitar controlled the crowd’s ears while their eyes locked-in on his demeanor that commanded the theater to feel the passion he poured into his performance.
You can experience Giant Rooks for yourself when they return May 21, 2022 to Los Angeles at The Moroccan Lounge.
As the houselights dimmed and Clemens Rehbein, Philipp Dausch, Sebastion Schmidt, and Antonio Gregar – the members of Milky Chance – stepped on to the stage, the cheers from the floor vibrated the walls of The Wiltern. Even from the furthest seat at the top of mezzanine, fans were noticed by Rehbein and he showed his dearest admiration and appreciation for their presence.
MILKY CHANCE at The WILTERN | PHOTO by Debi Del Grande Courtesy of LiveNation
Their main set, although it did not include many of their more well-known songs, kept the audience and Rehbein dancing. On several occasions it felt as if a small earthquake struck as the floor moved below the audience’s feet. Individuals of all ages and backgrounds sang along to each song and intensified the experience for those around them. When they finally played “Sweet Sun” and “Colorado,” everyone in the pit began move together as if one cohesive unit.
Milky Chance stunned the crowd as they came back onstage for a four-song encore which included the songs, “Ego,” “Stolen Dance,” “Don’t Let Me Down,” and Running.”
MILKY CHANCE at The WILTERN | PHOTO by Debi Del Grande Courtesy of LiveNation
I typically try to keep my articles as observational as possible, but I cannot resist sharing what the performance meant for me and my partner Christina. This was the highlight event of 2021 for us as we have been waiting since 2019 for the opportunity to see Milky Chance together.
I’ve been to performances in theaters before, but the visual effects and the energy that evening were only comparable to that of most large music festivals.
Milky Chance is a must-see group to experience in any and all style of event. Currently they are not set to return to California in 2022, but keep up to date with OC Music News for the any future Southern California events.
In the end, what a great night for music in the city of Angels!
