The Happy Hollows: Concert Review

There is no doubt that Los Angeles-based band, The Happy Hollows, is currently on the rise. Although they’ve been around for years, their live shows have always boosted their popularity rating and their long-awaited debut album, Spells, is only proof that they’re still worth your time. That’s exactly why their Spaceland residency for November is currently the talk of the town.

With opening bands such as The Widow Babies and Casxio, Monday night was another treat for post-punk lovers. With a packed crowd, Sarah Negahdari, Charles Mahoney, and Chris Hernandez hypnotized us with a set that was so explosive and energetic, it’s no wonder Autumn Tone records recently snatched them up from any other labels who were interested in the trio. Their songs filled with jagged guitar licks, intricate bass lines and turbulent beats are for those who like to live in the fast lane, so if you want to hop in for the ride – you gotta do it fast. Pretty soon, it won’t be so easy to see this band live.

One of their strongest and accessible songs off of Spells, “Faces” was a a great opener and they even had an extra guitarist to boot. Although The Happy Hollows are revered as a charming trio, the extra guitarist (who also played on Spells), only enhanced the two songs he played on and their bold sound was heightened to another level one wouldn’t think was possible. To accompany the dueling guitars on stage, Negahdari also magnified her stage persona with hyperactive yelps, squeals, and kicks that impressively echoed Kim Deal and Emily Haines.

Yet even in the midst of her out of control movement, Negahdari also made sure we knew she was reciprocating all the love. Often known to gush over their appreciation for the crowd, Negahdari can sometimes comes off as a Care Bear (Love-a-lot!) with her overwhelming gratitude when she points to the crowd, outlines a heart on her chest and mouths the words, “I love you!” to the audience. It’s endearing enough to make you giggle (even the guys end up giggling), and fresh camaraderie between the band and and audience is born every time this happens.

“High Wire” which features Mahoney on keys was a crowd favorite, as the opening chords only highlighted the grandiosity of their essence, and the memorable guitar riff in the classic “Lieutenant” also ignited a fire which resulted in hollers and smiles of sheer enjoyment on our end.

With a back drop that emulated the covert art for Spells, The Happy Hollows’ performance was a validation stating that their music is full of life and quirky color, only to invite us into their world where the wild things are. They just happen to write and perform really great songs within that world.

See more photos from the show in our gallery!

Photography by Andrew White