Ty Segall and Mikal Cronin perform onstage during Segall’s concert at the Bluebird on Sept. 26. (Photo Courtesy of Henry Moffly)
With the sold-out Bluebird Theater in Denver packed tight with anticipatory bodies, “Jimmy Longhorn” took to the stage to introduce his new band from Jupiter, the Manipulator band. Following his introduction, Ty Segall, Mikal Cronin, Emily Rose and Charles Mootheart came on, all sporting some form of glittering makeup, hinting at the glam-rock-inspired music to come.
Longhorn stayed onstage to play the opening notes from the titular track, “Manipulator,” before he made his exit. Segall and company launched into the psych-rock tune and delivered the normally hi-fi song with a fast-driven rock edge. The group barreled on, playing most of their album “Manipulator,” making sure to deviate from the track listings of the album.
While “Manipulator” itself is fast-paced, Segall delivered every song with a raw energy that made each track explode. Accompanying the quickened pace of play were Segall’s stage antics, including gyrating up to his amp and a flamboyant flair to his guitar playing.
“Manipulator” dominated the set, but the group made sure to play some of Segall’s earlier releases as well.
They delivered “Imaginary Person” with a raucous edge, Segall’s voice cutting through the roar of the instruments. Still featuring 2010’s album “Melted,“ the sped up tempo of “Finger” made the song almost unrecognizable from the studio version. “Thank God For Sinners” was also a crowd pleaser, leaving the audience anticipating an encore.
They didn’t have to ask twice. The Manipulator band came back with covers of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Bad Moon Rising” as well as “Suzie Q.” This was followed by Segall’s “The Drag,” for which Shana Cleveland, of the opening act La Luz, took over on guitar. That, in return, freed Segall to dive into the crowd, the sea of hands happily carrying him back several tiers in the theater.
While his albums speak for themselves, Segall brings his music to light with heartfelt energy and raw talent. His discography continues to grow, and the saturation of continually making music reflects in his live shows.
Contact CU Independent Staff Writer Kate Siem at ksiemm@gmail.com
