Music

Five thoughts: Interpol (August 21, Boulevard Pool)

Image
Interpol
Photo: Erik Kabik/RETNA
Chris Bitonti

1. The Cosmopolitan pool deck was packed with fans—let’s call them Pol-ygamists—anxious for the New York indie rockers’ first Las Vegas stop since 2010.

2. Interpol ruled college radio in the 2000s, and their signature sound holds up 10 years after the release of second album Antics. The quartet combines dark lyrics with minimalist, repetitive and staccato instrumentation; a style frequently imitated since, though never to the same level of quality.

3. Singer Paul Banks’ perfectly flawed voice remains instantly identifiable. While his range could be described as single-octave or even monotone, against the backdrop of Interpol’s droning music it resonates with serious weight.

4. Songs off the soon-to-be-released fifth album El Pintor, including “All the Rage Back Home” and “Ancient Ways,” jump off the stage with refreshed energy that speaks of the band’s multi-year hiatus. The new tracks remain some of the most memorable from Thursday night’s set.

5. Interpol’s 75-minute performance made for an enjoyable outing, though it came after a long wait without an opening act.

Share
Top of Story