Fitz and The Tantrums at the Academy, Dublin, 3rd March 2014

Since  forming in 2008 Fitz and The Tantrums have built a dedicated fan base, before their second album is released here in mid April they hit The Academy for their first ever Irish show.

The intimate crowd waited with bated breathe for the Californians to take the stage, emerging with an electric energy. Without saying a word they kicked into Get Away . Laced with thumping drums, magnificently composed synthesiser parts, perfectly subtle trumpet and beautiful harmonies from vocalists Michael Fitzpatrick and Noelle Scaggs.

The resounding opening keys of Don’t Gotta were followed by even more hair raising harmonies. Fitz and his Tantrums managed to provide an entertaining and energetic performance without a single bum-note. Breaking The Chains Of Love was a big highlight of the show, the lead vocal was once again flawless. This band were tight and the crowd was theirs for the taking.

With the show in full swing Fools Gold just added to the experience and the memorable chorus had the entire venue singing in unison. The band’s energy soared yet again and for Last Raindrop the band were joined on stage by members of the Dublin City Gospel Choir – the soulful singers adding an incredible diversity to the show. Breathtaking vocals fused with the rumbling bass and sizzling saxophone.

The finale just had to be Moneygrabber, the outrageously catchy keyboard intro was greeted with rapturous applause from the audience and the band gave socks for a triumphant finish as Fitz And The Tantrums went out with a bang.

The show overall was an incredible showcase a long time coming, but no doubt worth the wait. The band’s talent and energy is something that will drive them forward as a fantastic must-see live act and with phenomenal vocals, musicianship and energy to spare, it was a perfect recipe for an out of this world musical stew.