Against The Current's HK concert was full of spectacular talent and touching emotions
Pop-rock band Against the Current’s fourth Hong Kong concert invigorated fans last night with lead singer Chrissy Costanza’s unfaltering vocals, drummer Will Ferri’s furious beats, and guitarist Dan Gow’s expressive strumming. It was altogether an atmospheric and unforgettable sonic experience, which became even more hyped up when Costanza invited the audience to pretend school and work don't exist.
The third stop in the Asia leg of the band’s world tour, the whole night celebrated their new album, Past Lives, and included a good dose of nostalgia with tracks from their debut album, In Our Bones, and second-ever EP, Gravity.
Costanza’s stellar performance of songs such as The Fuss (which addresses society’s obsession with trends and the ever-changing fads that so many feel pressured to conform to) reminded the audience of the writing and performing talent that brought the New York-based trio together, which is also the talent that took them from posting covers to YouTube to rocking on stage all over the world.
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Defying the age-old stereotype that artists always arrive late to their concerts, Against the Current jumped on stage not long after they were due to begin and performed Strangers Again, with little preamble. Costanza’s energy was fueled by the fans' cries as she bounded onto stage, the darkened theatre was suddenly bathed in a purple glow as lights danced to the melody of the song.
This was followed by Personal, a rock ballad that laments Costanza's loss of her friend, Julius Trombino, who died when he was only 23 years old.
In Our Bones hit Chasing Ghosts' mellow beats and steady rhythm was a throwback to their old pop-rock sound, and gave the audience their first taste of Costanza’s fantastic vocal range and stamina.
Clad in bright white, the American singer’s lone figure was illuminated by the stage lights; a stark contrast to the darkness of the ampitheatre.
Voices, which Costanza admitted may be her favourite song on the album, opens with Gow’s steady electric guitar chords and speaks against the pressures we face today on social media.
The concert featured a mix of old songs and new, including fan favourite Dreaming Alone, which added to the dreamy atmosphere with its unfocused timbre.
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Though it was hard not to be completely mesmerised by Costanza the whole night, Gow and Ferri held their own, too. The two were total rockstars, disappearing into their music as they played with their eyes closed and lost themselves in the lyrics.
Expressing that they have never performed the song live before, the band ended on Demons. The song's emotional message of personal growth and battling with inner demons was a perfect way to wrap up the night.
Though the concert ended unexpectedly early, every second was filled with the band's committment, energy, and impressive talent. Combined with the atmosphere, Costanza's genuine and excitable personality, and the sheer dedication of all three members to the music, the night was an enchanting experience that did not disappoint.