Photo Review: Animal Collective at the Ottobar

Photos by Chrissy

When I first heard Sung Tungs five or so years ago, I would have never dreamed of Animal Collective being where they are at today. As the experimental folk noise of Here Comes the Indian has evolved into the sonic pop bliss of Merriweather Post Pavillion, Animal Collective are poised to take over the world.

Last night the band played a rare hometown show in Baltimore at the cozy Ottobar. Tickets were only obtained by those with sheer luck or quick determination, and those select few were handsomely rewarded. Avey Tare, Panda Bear, and the Geologist all took the stage a little after 9 PM to a very warm reception.

Only stopping once or twice to thank and share their love for the intimate setting, the trio twisted and twirled its way through a ridiculously stellar set. Avey and Panda crooned and shrieked as the Geologist laid the groundwork for the beats and noise which seemed to build and build as the set wore on. "Fireworks" was fantastic, but you can't mess with the warped version of "Who Could Win a Rabbit" that faded into "Summetime Clothes". The encore closed with "My Girls", as the entire crowed pleaded for four walls and adobe slacks for their girls.

The set was very heavy in MPP material, but I sure as hell didn't see anyone complaining. Gawk at Chrissy's incredible photo set above, and check back for coverage of tonight's show at the 930 Club.