DeVotchKa Live Review

With frontman Nick Urata rocking some crazy guitars and a classic crooner mic, backed by a girl on sousaphone, a very talented violinist and a drummer and occasional trumpeter, Devotchka gave a rousing performance at the HMV Forum last night.

The quartet have steadily gained a following over the last few years with their unique sound, boosting their fanbase through their work on the Little Miss Sunshine film score.

The band’s unchanged line-up comes together like a well-oiled machine. Lead singer Nick Urata comes on to stage with his trademark bottle of red wine, saluting the crowd as fellow band members join him onstage: Tom Hagerman on violin, accordion, and piano; Jeanie Schroder on the tuba and double bass; and percussionist Shawn King (who isn’t spared from performing double-duties) on trumpet on a few of their songs.

Though DeVotchKa played a tried and tested set list that included favorites like “How It Ends,” “The Enemy Guns,” and “Clockwise Witness,” the band’s performance was loose and spirited, feeding off the crowd’s energy.

By the time DeVotchKa wrapped up the audience was revved and ready for the headliners.

DeVotcKa's 5th album 100 Lovers is released on February 28th 2011 via Anti-Records.