LIVE REVIEW

People In Planes @ Henry Fonda Theatre, Hollywood Ca.

By: Gian Erguiza - October, 2008

“Hello California, how are you all doing? We’re People In Planes.” Gareth Jones greets the crowd, sweating, pumped and with a semi-nervous smile. Looking happy and tired, Gareth then exclaims to the crowd how excited they are to play Hollywood with a new album in tow. “How many of you have our new album, Beyond The Horizon?” The crowd responds graciously and off the band went into the next song.

People In Planes’ second effort is a blistering album full of melodies, catchy hooks and great musicianship. From listening to ‘Beyond The Horizon,’ I could tell that the band had put a lot of emotion and effort into the recording into which the end result is a magnificent record sure to catapult the band into the success they hastily deserve. The album also boasts great heartfelt lyrics, care of Gareth Jones, giving the album the edge over their counterparts. ‘Beyond The Horizon’ is easily one of the best albums of 2008.

As I filtered into the Henry Fonda Theatre, I could see the cloud of smoke emulating from the stage, so rock star. Right as I was walking in to get a closer look at the stage, People In Planes walks onstage. No rock star intros, no anti-climactic ‘orchestral’ music playing nor was there any obnoxious ‘hype man’ to start the show, just the band walking in, turning on and starting the set. Nice. I quickly notice that the setup is quite unusual with the drums being off to the left side of the stage with the Piano and both guitar and bass on the right with vocals in center. I liked it. It definitely caught my attention since most bands have the usual drummer in the back, bass and guitars on the side stages and vocals right on center stage. This was different but so are People In Planes.

At first, the crowd seemed to not dig what they were hearing. I myself couldn’t really figure out why but I’m guessing it’s because their album is still pretty fresh and are probably still making an impression on some. Don’t get me wrong though, the front section knew exactly who People In Planes were. They were in heaven listening with arms waving, screaming, and singing word for word each and every song. I myself couldn’t help but think what was wrong with the crowd but to hell with them, these guys were giving us a great show!

By the third song, I was completely entranced by Gareth’s voice and stage presence. His voice sounded even bigger in real life and did not miss a note in his delivery. The guitars also sounded great with some great tones and overlays. The drums were on point with great power and precision. The bass thumped away with conviction as well. The piano, what can I say, a great pianist with a great style and sound can bring any house down and bring the house down he did. On ‘Pretty Buildings,’ Gareth’s voice sounded as pristine as it can get and with that great piano riff, it sounded amazing accompanied by the lighting system. At this point in time is where I think the crowd seemed to quiet down, listen in and take in what they were actually witnessing: A great band that refuses to be unheard nor overlooked, at least not tonight.

‘Mayday’ to me was the song highlight of the night. I had high hopes for them to play that song and I’m sure glad they did, it made my night. It showcased the bands flexibility and versatility with the vocals soaring, the guitars raging and the bands’ musicianship level on high. It was a great display of how People In Planes mixes melodies with harmonies and undeniable rhythms. It’s almost like a signature song for the band in my opinion and it couldn’t have sounded better live. Awesome!

After a few more stabs on the mic, of which I couldn’t hear what they were saying since the crowd had surged to capacity at this point, loud and drunk, Gareth and company burst into ‘Vampire.’ This song totally threw the crowd into a different direction. The rocking guitars, melancholy singing and the powerful riffing shifted so fast that the crowd had a hard time adjusting to the song, not me. I was totally impressed that they played this song. I was not expecting it thinking that they’d go for the more people friendly tracks but I totally gave them full respect after that song, it was fucking great! A rock song without the fat!

The only complaint or fret I have is that their set seemed shorter than it was supposed to be? I felt like they had 1-3 more songs to go but as soon as I knew it, their set was over. Personally, I could’ve listened to more songs from them rather than the headliner, Stereophonics.

Overall, People In Planes were impressive. They were all pro, especially when it came to the music. Their stage presence was not the greatest but the music spoke louder, which is the way it should be.

On a noteworthy whim, Stereophonics were dead on with their music. They sounded excellent and their stage lighting made for a great show. Not a big fan of this band but they sure did sound great and the crowd was way into it. They packed the house with no problems and you’ve got to respect a band that can do this, rocking each song, even if you’re not a fan.

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