Live shows are beyond powerful. There is something really special when you can have a deep connection with an audience no matter how big or small. Friday night was an evening that belonged to the very deserving Socionic. Their new album Dividing Horizon just came out and it is spectacular. Their performance this night was outstanding. I’ve seen a lot (and I mean a lot) of bands in my life and Socionic just left a mark in my mind. Just as With Our Arms To The Sun has been able to do, Socionic grabs you from the first note all the way to the end. As they were the highlight of the night, there were a few other bands that really hit it home.
First up was Here Lies The Hero. This 5 piece post hardcore band similar to the likes of Letlive and Norma Jean, took charge to the stage. You could tell by watching them on the Viper Room’s stage that they are a very energetic band. I was waiting for them to lash out and go nuts, but they restrained themselves and focused on delivering a solid performance of mainly new material that sounded great. They really set the tone for the night.
Next up was the very interesting prog rock band Elixir On Mute. Guitarist Jordan Ferreira is a shredder amongst the best. His command of the guitar is captivating. Joining them for their live set was bassist Matt Denis (also of Socionic). Their set was very free flowing, allowing for the music to do the talking. Granted I wasn’t a fan of the vocals from the recordings I heard before seeing them, this band live really kills it.
The highlight of the night was Socionic. They are the real deal. They made the small Viper Room stage seem huge as they delivered on every song with tight precision and gusto. Singer Michael Meinhart, is so passionate in his delivery. Vocally he has range and personality along with solid melodies. Musically the band is tight and full of the prowess needed to deliver the lie performance. Their set consisted of songs from their EP Identity and new album Dividing Horizon. One of the coolest things I saw during their performance was the guy standing next to me. He had to be no older than 21 and was singing along to all the songs he knew. It was one of those moments that reminded me of myself when I was younger. Socionic has the music and live show to really leave a mark amongst all their peers.
It’s nights like this that make me long for the days of going to shows and being wowed by the bands I see. The entire night was filled with one good band after another. On an interesting note as well, The Viper Room is fast becoming the it place to play in Hollywood now.
Socionic:
https://www.facebook.com/socionic/
Here Lies The Hero:
https://www.facebook.com/Hereliesthehero
Elixir On Mute:
https://www.facebook.com/ElixirOnMute
By: Brian Lacy
audioeclectica 