“Congratulations”
By: Gracee Arthur
In the spring of 2009 Sony Records asked me to help find a peaceful retreat in Malibu for Ben Goldwasser and Andrew Van Wyngarden where they could compose music for their upcoming album. I found them the perfect place close to the beach but nestled back in a lovely canyon with a creek, mountains and beautiful gardens. The charming Spanish hacienda was so inspiring, not only did the group write their songs there but recorded their album there, as well!
This past Friday, MGMT performed music from “Congratulations,” the album born in Malibu and I was really excited about going to their concert. Their manager David Gottlieb was nice enough to get me tickets for which I say a big “thank you!” Unfortunately (expletive deleted) I got a bad sinus infection so instead of drinking wine at the Greek listing to MGMT; I was taking antibiotics and sulking at home. Luckily my friend and colleague Stephen Roesler (who is the technological whiz for my blog) was more than happy to attend the concert in my place.
Andrew and Ben are terrifically nice, talented guys. I wish them continued success in their career. What follows is Stephen’s commentary on the MGMT concert at the Greek July 17, 2010:
“Opening with “Helios Creed” and “Francis & the Lights,” MGMT took the stage and greeted the excited crowd. Splitting their play time evenly between Oracular Spectacular and Congratulations, MGMT had the Greek theater captivated by their synth-pop/psychedelic rock beats. With packed seats, I watched the standing crowd glow in the fluorescent lights as a haze of smoke loomed above the audience, the shadow of front row hands rocking to “Kids.” Although Andrew VanWyngarden is typically esteemed as the leader of MGMT, it was Ben Goldwasser who caught my eye. He ripped on the keyboards and synthesizers and was a pleasant surprise on vocals. They played nearly 2 hours and appeared at the VIP party afterward. Here is a clip from them playing “Electric Feel”
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s3N_-X7hCJQ[/youtube]
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