Kicking off their current reunion tour in DC’s venerable 9:30 Club, legendary shoe-gazers, Ride from Oxford, England have returned to form, both stylistically and sonically. With a simple yet prominent banner hanging behind the stage with the band’s bold logo, the scene was set and the crowd was primed to hear what would be a fantastic night of music.
Ride is currently touring to celebrate the 25 anniversary of their debut album, Nowhere which landed in record shops in October of 1990. Then as now, every detail about their sound on stage is absolutely perfect. It’s not just the clear, bright (often British) guitar tone, but the mix of each member’s unique tones coming together to create one superb presence.
Ride has certainly left a major mark on music and culture in their wake. In fact, the band has become almost a thing of legend particularly among musicians—a musicians band, if you will. Most notable is Mark Gardener with his intensely bright guitar tone and signature laid back vocals, complimented by Alan Bell’s shimmering guitar. Behind them is bass player Steve Queralt and one of the best drummers in the genre, Laurence Colbert. Ride’s performance in DC was stellar.
Ride’s setlist included: “Leave Them All Behind,” “Like a Daydream,” “Cool Your Boots,” “In a Different Place.” Their encore included “Today” and “Seagull.”
New York’s DIIV had the honor of being the evening’s opener. With a progressive and intensely sound, they fit the bill perfectly and overall gave a very solid performance.
DIIV
