Japanese Breakfast returned to their home city Thursday night for a triumphant show at First Unitarian Church. The show marked the end of a five-month U.S. tour and acted as a precursor to their European tour that begins on Saturday. On this night, they were accompanied by openers—and fellow Philly bands—Mannequin Pussy and the Spirit of the Beehive. The three put on a brilliant, energetic rock show for a sold-out crowd. Here are some photos and highlights from the night.
1. Japanese Breakfast frontwoman Michelle Zauner was all energy
With light-up white sneakers and performing a rarified combo of rock and pop that smells like the 1980s but tastes like the future, Zauner was all over the stage. She bounced up and down, and at one point even came out into the adoring crowd. It was thrilling fun to experience.
2. Soft Sounds from Another Planet is brilliant when played live
Japanese Breakfast’s sophomore release, Soft Sounds from Another Planet, expands sonically in a live setting, bringing the lush sounds and otherworldly textures to life. “The Body is a Blade” was a particular highlight among a strong set of new and old tunes.
3. Mannequin Pussy was stunning, once again
One of Philly’s strongest musical acts, Mannequin Pussy creates a fierce, multifaceted sound unexpected ways. Singer Marisa Dabice can move from quiet, introspective vocals to thrashing on her guitar in an instant. It is a whirlwind of punk rock that never lasts long enough.
4. The spaciousness of rock, via the Spirit of the Beehive
In a short but exhilarating opening set, the Spirit of the Beehive breathed new life into each of their songs, moving from calm to storm with precision. Playing behind their 2017 work, Pleasure Suck, they were an excellent start to an evening of super fine Philadelphia music.
