By Erinn Fortson
“I feel slightly under dressed” I thought to myself, as I join fellow concert goers in entering the Academy of Music. From bow ties to broaches, it seemed as though Philadelphia laid out their Sunday best to welcome Leslie Feist to town. With one quick turn around the corner, I soon discovered that my causal attire was additionally shared with other fans. After a quick trip to the ladies room and a lighted escort to my seat, I waited anxiously for what would undoubtedly be an incredible show. As Timber Timbre exited the stage and Feist walked on, I knew my prediction would become a truth within a matter of minutes.
Boom. Ba Da Da Boom. Boom. Ba Da Da Boom. As Paul Taylor pounds out the percussion heavy intro of “The Bad In Each Other”, I can’t help but vocalize the excitement that has been festering inside me since stepping foot in the venue. I continue to yelp, stomp my feet, and smile big as Feist begins to sing the song I desperately hoped I would hear at some point during her performance. I envisioned this very moment days before the concert, listening to “Metals” in my car and wondering if album’s arrangements would sound just as good in person. They didn’t. They sounded better.
Quite often there times I am instantly reminded of how much I love music. Watching Leslie Feist and her talented, accompanying band perform this night, was certainly one of these occasions. For the rest of the evening, after only hearing that first minute of Feist’s set, I was rhythmically hypnotized into a state of musical wonderment. I felt so privileged to be part of such an exhilarating experience, as us audience members were prompted to join in the chorus. The only time I was disappointed with the small space surrounding my seat was during “I Feel It All” when Feist enticed the audience to get up and dance. Seeing people immediately rise and jump about to the music made me further appreciative of my presence at this event. Halfway through the show, I gasped with astonishing enthusiasm as realized that Mountain Man were responsible for singing backup. Their musical mouthpieces carried magnificently throughout the Academy of Music and complimented Feist’s own unique voice very well. She couldn’t have picked a better band to support her on tour.
My hands hurt badly from clapping with such force after every song. I applauded Feist as though my physical gratitude was keeping her alive. I believed in her and wanted the world to know it. As soon as Feist issued her first goodbye to the crowd, my mood immediately saddens, regardless of knowing that an encore would surely ensue. When she rejoined her band onstage, I am already standing up to cheer her on. This night will forever be etched in my brain as one of life’s greatest moments. Sometimes I lose touch with music and forget why it’s so important to me. Seeing Feist perform her ingenious works of art will be the mental keepsake I need to never forget where my true passion lies.
Two hours and 25 minutes after ascending up the Academy of Music’s outside stairs, I’m walking with my partner as we travel to our car. We both share a welcomed state of bliss as our hearts still beat to the sounds of Feist. “That was my favorite show that we’ve ever been to”, Jessica turns and says to me. I couldn’t agree more. Not only was I swimming in the excitement of the concert, but also thrill of being able to enjoy this whole experience with the person I love. I was now holding the hand of a full pledged Feist fan and it felt awesome.
