EDM power duo, Galantis, comprised of Christian Karlsson and Linus Eklöw, filled Bill Graham Civic Auditorium with neon covered, swim-suit wearing, raving fans. The band performed in what looked like a neon boxy spaceship, transporting me to another planet.
I saw the band perform two years ago at Governor’s Ball in New York City and vividly remember the extravagant graphics and giant explosions of fire that blew up during beat drops. Friday night, however, was a surprise. Galantis took over Bill Graham in a way I had not seen them do in New York. They created their own world, controlling the audience from within their neon spaceship. The clouds of smoke that fired from the stage enhanced the sound-waves that coursed through my body. The flawless transitions between songs inhibited me from ever standing still — each new song overpowered the last, increasing my excitement like electric shocks.
Friday’s set was a mixture of old-time favorites such as “No Money” and “Peanut Butter Jelly,” but included covers like “Titanium,” “Piece of Your Heart,” and “Pursuit of Happiness.” Regardless of whether it was their own music, Galantis remixed each song in their own way and interacted with their audience, encouraging them to sing along by screaming “1, 2, 3, go!”
The band gave an incredible encore with “Runaway (U & I),” displaying a bright pair of red lips that mouthed the lyrics — even though we all knew every word — and releasing massive white globes, and multicolored confetti from the ceiling.
Galantis ended their show with “San Francisco,” expressing their love for the city and ensuring its audience that they take a special place in their hearts.
Article and Photos by Sara Florez