Show: Tegan and Sara
Date: February 1, 2013
Venue: Club Nokia
City: Los Angeles, CA
Tegan and Sara
Photos by Nicolas Bates
Written by Nicolas Bates
On February 1, 2013 Canadian twin sisters Tegan and Sara packed Club Nokia in Downtown Los Angeles to what seemed like full capacity. A few days prior their latest, Heartthrob, had just been released, but that seemed like more than enough time for the crowd to already have familiarized itself with the new list of tracks and the more electro-pop sound that Tegan and Sara have adopted.
The crowd ranged from all ages and sexes, and very early on it was apparent the mass within Club Nokia was ready to witness the emotionally-charged pop that these two sisters have come to be known for. The love could be heard via verbal outbursts from the outspoken fans of the night. And there were definitely no shortage of them.
Many may not know it, but these two young girls have been professional musicians for well over a decade. Although not afraid to show some humility, it becomes apparent very quickly how professional in nature these girls really are about their craft.
They start out the evening with “Back in Your Head” from their release The Con and head into “Goodbye, Goodbye,” “I Was a Fool” and “I’m Not Your Hero,” all off Heartthrob. If there was any lack of enthusiasm for the newer tracks, there surely was no way to tell. The vibe in Club Nokia was that of “I’m here because I love whatever Tegan and Sara create.” These girls surely have devoted fans, and it’s no wonder why considering their emotional songs and their outspoken nature about gay rights. One thing to note is how many gay and/or lesbian couples could truly embrace the night with their partner in the open, and have not a care in the world doing so. Acceptance and love, truly beautiful things.
Quickly we learn that Tegan is the more outspoken sister, while Sara decides to stay on the quieter side and focus more on the music. Constantly Tegan showed her (and their) gratitude for their fans and the ability to play music as a living by outright mentioning it to the crowd. Continually, she would make sure the crowd was all right, doing great and ready for more.
They went on to play other tracks “Walking with a Ghost,” “Burn Your Life Down, “ “Alligator,” “Where Does The Good Go,” “Shock To Your System” and an amazing version of “Not Tonight,” by Sara, which, mid-song, flowed beautifully into a cover of Springsteen’s “I’m on Fire.”
Overall, Tegan and Sara played a total of 23 songs—mostly off The Con and Heartthrob—to the delight of every one in attendance. These girls are sweet, smart, show humility, have a sense of humor, are advocates for equality and can compose some of the catchiest tunes around. If Tegan and Sara are coming through a town near you, do yourself a favor and go check these girls out!