Tuesday, January 12, 1999
Band proves dark side of rock can still be fun
MUSIC: Strong stage presence lends clout to Placebo’s long
set
By Michelle Zubiate
Daily Bruin Staff
Whether wearing a little goth or a little drag, the music rocks
just the same. Placebo remains one of the few bands that rises
above a humorous spectacle. The small trio from the United Kingdom
gave the Whisky A Go Go a small, comfortable yet impressive show
that proves that the dark side of music contains a noteworthy edge
of real talent.
On Dec. 13, Placebo entered the stage before a mixed group of
both fans of glam and fans of the underside. Placebo’s music,
however, does not entirely consist of sorrowful lyrics and cynical
undertones. Once in a while, one can catch an optimistic chord or
an empowering beat. You just have to know where to look.
Most of all, the band remains true and serious to their
performance. The fact that the male bassist is wearing a tight red
dress is irrelevant. What does matter remains the fact that Placebo
likes to blow away a crowd with effort and loud, earth-shattering
electric hooks.
Throughout the set, the band only spoke a few times to make
quirky comments as an introduction to the next song. Solemnly they
played through each song like it was the first, though at times the
songs tended to sound similar and monotonous.
Playing a mix comprised mostly of songs from their newest album,
"Without You I’m Nothing," the band saved their biggest hit, "Pure
Morning," for their encore. This encore allowed Placebo to unleash
the talent that they had hid throughout their overly lengthy, yet
decent, set.
Their strong points, however, outshine their few weak ones. They
delivered a powerful mix of energy and outstanding melody that kept
everyone entertained despite the long wait in a hot venue.
Although their music itself deserves its own praise, it would
not have stood alone with an equally strong delivery. Luckily,
Placebo held a healthy dose of heart underneath their desire to
rock.
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