LCD Soundsystem and Pulp recently performed a joint cover of Heaven 17's 1981 track, "(We Don't Need This) Fascist Groove Thang." This collaboration occurred during the second of two co-headlining shows at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. The performance marked a notable moment for fans of both bands.
The two groups shared the stage on Thursday, September 25, and Friday, September 26. The joint performance happened on the second night, bringing together the distinct sounds of both LCD Soundsystem and Pulp.
Key Takeaways
- LCD Soundsystem and Pulp performed a joint cover at the Hollywood Bowl.
- The song covered was Heaven 17's "(We Don't Need This) Fascist Groove Thang."
- This was the first live performance of the track by LCD Soundsystem.
- Nancy Whang and Jarvis Cocker led the vocals for the collaboration.
Hollywood Bowl Collaboration
The Hollywood Bowl, a well-known outdoor amphitheater in Los Angeles, hosted the two co-headlining concerts. These events brought a significant audience to see both LCD Soundsystem and Pulp perform their respective sets. The collaborative cover added an unexpected element to the second night's program.
Fans had anticipated the shows since their announcement. The idea of two prominent bands sharing a stage generated considerable interest. The decision to perform a cover together surprised many attendees.
Quick Fact
The Hollywood Bowl has been a major music venue since its opening in 1922. It hosts a wide range of musical acts and cultural events annually. Its capacity is approximately 17,500 seats.
The Chosen Track: Heaven 17
The song selected for the joint performance was "(We Don't Need This) Fascist Groove Thang." This track was originally released by the British new wave band Heaven 17 in 1981. It is known for its political lyrics and catchy synth-pop sound.
Heaven 17 formed in Sheffield, England, in 1980. The band was a key part of the electronic music scene of the early 1980s. Their music often addressed social and political themes.
"The energy of both bands on stage for this particular song was remarkable," an attendee noted. "It was a powerful moment to see them unite on such a historically charged track."
LCD Soundsystem's Prior Connection to the Song
LCD Soundsystem, led by James Murphy, had previously recorded a version of "(We Don't Need This) Fascist Groove Thang." This recording appeared on their 2019 album, Electric Lady Sessions. However, the band had never performed the song live in concert before the Hollywood Bowl show.
The Electric Lady Sessions album captured live-in-studio performances. It offered new interpretations of some of their tracks and a few covers. The Heaven 17 cover was a standout on that release.
Background on Electric Lady Sessions
Electric Lady Sessions was recorded at Electric Lady Studios in New York City. This studio is famous for its history and the artists who have recorded there. LCD Soundsystem's decision to record a live album there added to its appeal. The album received positive reviews from critics.
Performance Details and Lead Vocals
For the Hollywood Bowl performance, key members from both bands took on lead roles. Nancy Whang of LCD Soundsystem and Jarvis Cocker of Pulp handled the primary vocals. Their combined voices brought a fresh dynamic to the 1981 classic.
Nancy Whang is a long-standing member of LCD Soundsystem. She contributes vocals, keyboards, and synthesizers. Jarvis Cocker is the frontman of Pulp, known for his distinctive vocal style and stage presence.
The collaboration showcased the chemistry between the artists. It allowed each band's style to blend into a unified sound. The audience responded positively to the unexpected combination of talent.
Pulp's Return to Live Performances
Pulp, a prominent British rock band, has had several reunion tours. Their return to stages like the Hollywood Bowl is often met with enthusiasm by their fanbase. Jarvis Cocker's charismatic performances remain a highlight.
Impact on Fans and Future Collaborations
The joint cover performance quickly became a talking point among music fans. Videos of the collaboration circulated online, allowing those who were not present to experience the moment. This type of unexpected collaboration often generates significant buzz.
Such events highlight the ongoing appeal of classic tracks. They also demonstrate the willingness of established artists to experiment and collaborate. It remains to be seen if this performance will lead to other joint projects between LCD Soundsystem and Pulp.
The event served as a reminder of the power of live music. It showed how artists can reinterpret older material in new and engaging ways. The Hollywood Bowl provided a grand setting for this memorable musical convergence.
- The performance generated significant social media discussion.
- It showcased the enduring relevance of Heaven 17's message.
- The event underlined the strong fan bases of both LCD Soundsystem and Pulp.
The successful collaboration suggests that audiences appreciate these spontaneous artistic mergers. It adds value to live concert experiences and creates unique memories for attendees.