An exceptionally dark Imperial was the latest stop for Damon McMahon and his project
“Amen Dunes” promoting his concept album “Freedom”.
Opener Okay Kaya quietly took the stage with an electric guitar and small synthesizer. As the crowd trickled in, there were more than a few who were clearly fans and had come mainly to see her. It also happened to be her birthday the day before.
Her quiet voice and strumming are an interesting counterpoint to quirky lyrics and an understated and deadpan delivery of some hilarious commentary. Songs like “IUD” and “Dance Like U” got some surprising guffaws from people who weren’t expecting such forward wit. Her set was highlighted by a tall fellow commanding the floor with his dance moves. She invited him up on stage to dance to some “Norwegian Folk” but then he was escorted away by security…catcalls from the audience got him back in however.
The bass and the tempo increased as Amen Dunes took the stage. Album collaborator Panoram was on the keys. By this time the venue was packed and heads were bobbing eagerly.
“I haven’t been here in 4 years…it’s nice to be back” was part of the sparse banter from the stage. The set featured most of the tracks from Amen Dunes new album, Freedom. When Dunes got to the title track, he said, “Freedom means exactly that, freedom to interpret it however you want”.
I was impressed at how well the tracks translated live. The musicianship was spot on and recreated the album sound very faithfully.
He kept it tight then came back with “Miki Dora”, the most upbeat track on Freedom, as the encore. Overall a satisfying show and the fans were pleased.
written by Scotty Evil / photos by Scotty Red Lenses Photography
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