Live in New York City
October 2, 2014 | Terminal 5
By Elliot Fisher
Real Estate took the stage Thursday night at Terminal 5 in New York City before a large hometown crowd. From teenagers to sexagenarians the venue was packed which speaks to part of the band’s allure; they appeal to a wide demographic. The band played many songs off their newest album Atlas released March 2014 by Domino Records. Atlas proves that the band is gaining popularity as the beginning notes from songs like “Had to Hear,” “Crime” and “Talking Backwards” were met with loud applause from the audience. The venue, Terminal 5, proved to be a great venue for the band too as the multilevel venue provided space for those who wanted to dance on the main floor or hang out on the balcony railings.
With no set break, the 5-piece band wooed the crowd and kept attention right on stage. It was magical to see a song end, the crowd settle, and then a new song begin with wild excitement. From my spot above the crowd on the Terminal’s balcony Real Estate’s music made the crowd dance wildly while also bobbing their heads like a pack of swimming tunas. While most of the songs selected were from Atlas Real Estate did perform one of their more popular song “It’s Real,” a song that put them back on the map back in 2011. Real Estate is a band that can capture the moment through their unique sound which send audiences into relaxed trances that follow the groove laid down by the indie-rock band.
The indie-rock band were very grateful to their fans throughout the show and bass player Alex Bleeker doubled as the night’s host humorously fielding questions from the audience and announcing the band’s love for their fans. Bleeker, a known Dead Head, also teased “Turn On Your Love Light” in between songs with a Merry Prankster-esque grin on his face. With some fun and interesting solo work from guitarist Matt Mondanile to extend songs and extend original jams, in addition to the calming voice of lead singer Martin Courtney, a live performance of Real Estate is definitely worth checking out. I was most surprised, and delighted, by the fact that these musicians were able to jam out their songs given the audiences’ energy. Band’s abilities to perform in such a way are crucial for live acts, and it is obvious that Real Estate understands this.
The New England-born band was founded in 2008, and three albums later they are finally gaining the national attention they deserve. Back on April 9th, Real Estate played on the Late Show with David Letterman in support of Atlas.