The Fray (6/18/07)



Of course everybody knows The Fray from Grey's Anatomy, but I actually have pre-GA knowledge of them through my friend Tim. He knew the lead singer's mother (or something like that)... I definitely liked what I heard when first listening to them, and I think they have a great sound - but I think their skyrocketing success had spoiled me a little to their music. They just got overplayed. But when the option of getting free tix through Tim's connection came up, I couldn't pass it up... especially with OK Go opening (and also because I missed them at Case's SpringFest).

The first opener was Mae. I listened to them on their MySpace page a little before, but unfortunately they have a formula pop/rock sound. Nothing stood out to me, so we planned to be there just in time for OKGo. Of course the heat was crazy, and being in the tent with a couple hundred people wasn't appealing so we stood back and watched the show from the refreshments area. Luckily the sound wasn't compromised, but also the reason for no photos.

OKGo had a great energy on stage, with plenty of wit and humor. At one point complimenting the audience for being "fleshy" and "attractive," while also dissing the previous audience at Buffalo (something always fun to hear). They even passed out instruments for the audience to play along. They are definitely a band you want to experience up-close and personal... especially when they end their set with one of their famed synchronized dancing (no, not on the treadmills).

The Fray took the stage and had all the expected "big rock show" lighting and video extras. They sounded just as good live as on CD. Not much banter or interaction with the audience. I would feel comfortable in assuming they were a little tired of playing these same songs from the way they felt on stage. I fear their major label success has them tied to milking this new album for every cent. However they did manage to get some new songs in. We didn't end up staying for the encore. I'd hate to say it, but I think if they were to get dropped by their label and took a more "organic" route, I'd probably be a bigger fan. And this may be possible now that Isaac (lead singer) doesn't need major label support anymore.

Posted: Mon - June 25, 2007 at 08:11 PM           |

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