Austin instrumental rock outfit, Explosions in the Sky are primarily known for writing the soundtrack for the 2004 film, "Friday Night Lights", music fans in Austin have been flocking to see EITS since they released their first song in 2000. Like the semi-orchestral leanings of the Beirut performance a couple of weeks ago at ACL Live, the intense and emotional element to the music EITS writes is well suited for a first-class venue like The Moody Theater. The band took advantage of the opportunity last Friday to perform on a stage where their live show would sound best. EITS delivered an hour and change of soft-loud arrangements that either climaxed into a shattering crescendo or returned to the the delicate harmonies from the songs introduction.
While EITS shirks the post-rock label, they list influences such as Scotland's Mogwai, who recently performed at Stubb's and Melbourne post-rockers, Dirty Three. We do not care what label you attach to the group, as long as they continue to deliver outstanding performances like the set on Friday.
EITS has no weak links in the lineup with all four members masterfully playing their instruments like the front row performers of an accomplished, rocked out orchestral quartet. EITS was given the new ACL Live stage and they claimed it like the room was built for them.
When they rolled out "Your Hand in Mine" from the Friday Night Lights soundtrack, fans applauded approvingly, yelling their thanks for the songs inclusion in the set. It was a bonding moment between fans and EITS who are preparing to embark on a national tour this fall. The tour includes stops in 21 U.S. cities culminating in Oklahoma City before they return to Austin.
A slideshow of photos from the show is available on the left sidebar. Which images are your favorites?
Special thanks to Keitha Spears of ACL Live.
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