Whispers circulated throughout Coachella that Spiritualized would be accompanied by a full choir. And they were. Just after dark on the second outdoor stage, surrounded by dripping candles and exotic instruments, many witnesses claim that they were the highlight of the two day event. With flash photography forbidden and mood enhancement encouraged, the musicians effectively hypnotized the swaying crowd with pulsing melodies and trance inducing vocals. My favorite element was the cigarette hanging precariously from the drummer’s open mouth during most of the set. Seems the music had gotten to him. Among the layers of rich, subtle vocal subject matter touched upon was (the singers) willingness and authority to kill himself. Don’t do it!

Review: Delaney Bishop