There’s something about anniversary shows that really gets a crowd going. Pressed against each other in the pit, hands swaying, chanting in time to favorite songs. What better way to celebrate 20 years of Interpol’s Antics than a 3-day sold out show at Brooklyn Steel? Longtime fans gathered for opening night on December 3. Ready to revel in the gritty, driving force of rich guitar playing and powerful lyricism.
Around since 1997, Interpol was formed under New York University doors, beginning with lead guitarist Daniel Kessler, frontman Paul Banks and drummer Greg Drudy. Their post-punk sound has become a staple amongst New Yorkers, emerging as a key rock revivalist of the early 2000s. In hopes to sound sleek and mysterious, they derived their name from The International Police Association, signing with Matador Records in 2002. Now, Interpol has played at a multitude of venues across the world, joined by Sam Fogarino on the drums.
With white sheer curtains draped across the front, a hush fell over the crowd as Interpol took stage a few minutes past 9:15pm. Opening with “Next Exit”, the band remained obscured. The crowd focused on projections of their silhouettes, jumping back and forth across the curtains. Once their second song, “Evil” reached crescendo, the lighting crew scrambled into the photo pit. The crew pulled back the expansive white sheet to reveal the band, dressed to the nines in black tailored suits.
After every song, fans whooped and hollered, dazed by the thick smoke and dramatic strobe lights. Lush storytelling balanced out catchy choruses, pairing with intricate guitar riffs to make a visually immersive performance. Their iconic color scheme of black, white and red alongside a sharp typeface held true. Non stop energy created through intriguing lighting choices and special effects.
As Interpol performed fan favorites such as “C’mere” and “Rest my Chemistry” the crowd pushed forward to the edge of the barricade, unable to peel their eyes off of the stage. By the time the 21 song setlist came to a close, the venue was absolutely packed. Reveling in the rush, fans lingered in the pit, chatting excitedly while sharing videos and treasured moments.
Interpol – Brooklyn Steel – Tuesday, December 3, 2024
Set 1 (Antics): Next Exit, Evil, Narc, Take You on a Cruise, Slow Hands, Not Even Jail, Public Pervert, C’mere, Length of Love, A Time to Be So Small
Set 2: Pioneer to the Falls, No I in Threesome, The Rover, Rest My Chemistry, My Desire, Roland, Lights, All the Rage Back Home, Obstacle 1
Encore: The New, PDA
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