M83 stunned an adoring and attentive crowd Wednesday night at the Mezzanine, with an intoxicating mix of atmospheric electronica – at times slow and droning and other times fun and emotionally intense.

Techno-geek James Yuill opened up and came out looking like he just got out of the office. His bizarre brand of folktronica got the crowd pretty warmed up with his acoustic guitar, heavy basslines, and infectious beats. A pretty decent opening act if you ask me.

After a 20 minute set up, M83 takes the stage. Frontman Anthony Gonzalez, decked out in a black leather jacket, captivated the sold-out crowd with his extensive use of reverb effects and often softly-spoken lyrics at times submerged in instrumentation.

Backed by Loic Maurin and Morgan Kibby of The Romanovs the trio played songs from their eclectic catalog, one that stretched back 8 years and four studio albums. At times they were deafening and danceworthy; at others so quiet you could easily hear Anthony’s breath against the mic, or the quiet hum of the venue’s air conditioning.

The band’s orchestral electronica fit somewhat perfectly within the spacey confines and bass-heavy speaker system of the Mezzanine. The three-piece played their set to an audience that was standing motionless at times (Moon Child) and then suddenly dancing uncontrollably (Sitting), waiting as each note faded from earshot – before erupting with thunderous applause.

The highlight of the night was “Skin of The Night,” which highlighted ‘s vocal ability and the band’s mix 80s synth and dark instrumentation. For “Kim & Jesse,” the audience went ballistic and sang along creating an electric and intensified mid-point to the band’s set.

If I had one complaint, it would be that the sound system seemed too bass heavy. That and the distortions were ear-piercing at times. I’m glad I brought along my ear-plugs that night. I need to more often.

All in all, M83 left me in awe at a band who can relax you for one song and make you dance like a maniac the next. Truly a band that understands mood and the importance of diversity during a performance.

M83 – Skin of The Night

M83 – Run Into Flowers

James Yuill – Left Handed Girl

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