Lifehouse Concert Review 10.22.2007

By K. Mac, FromTheCrowd.com Contributor

Performing at Tempe’s Marquee Theatre Monday night was Lifehouse, the band that entered the mainstream with their breakout single “Hanging by a Moment.” Surprisingly, the venue was not filled to capacity, but that did not stop Lifehouse from putting on an amazing show. If anything the lower number of attendees added to the intimate atmosphere of the show.

Lead vocalist, Jason Wade led the set perfectly, bringing the crowd with him on a journey through a variety of songs, emotions and tempos. His passion for the material was tangible, even from the back of the venue it was possible to feel the emotions in each song. Adding to the atmosphere were the lighting effects of the show. There was one moment that is still crystal clear in my mind, and that was when the instruments died out, he was backlit by soft blue light and his crystal clear voice sang the chorus of “Spin.”

As well as playing their own material, Lifehouse covered Badfinger’s “No Matter What,” which had the crowd singing along enthusiastically.  Jason interacted throughout the evening with the audience, including an anecdote about the drummer, Rick Woolstenhulme, growing up in Gilbert.  Jason and explained that Rick had worked at a popular pizza joint, and the crowd erupted in applause and cheers.  These interactions only enhanced the connection between the band and crowd.  Rick also made his hometown proud with an impressive drum solos during “Broken” and the encore.

Lifehouse’s performance was in no way lacking, even if concert attendance may have been.  The experience was incredible, and it felt as if it were attending a private concert. The members of Lifehouse engaged the crowd, and let everyone present feel the emotion that went into creating their music and lyrics. If you get the chance to see them in concert, take it. You will not be disappointed.

Set List:

• “Make Me Over”
• “Spin”
• “Am I Ever”
• “Interlude-Quasi”
• “Simon”
• “Hanging by a Moment”
• “Somebody Else”
• “Mesmerized”
• “No Matter What” – Badfinger Cover
• “The Joke”
• “Better Luck”
• “Whatever it Takes”
• “You and Me”
• “First Time”   

  Encore:

• “Disarray”
• “Broken”