Beirut enchants at The Paramount

Beirut at The Paramount Theatre (Photo: David Endicott)

The beautiful historic Paramount theater was filled with the most polite, respectful crowd. Everyone waited patiently for the bands to start, mingling quietly in the foyer with their drinks. People started to drift in for the opening act, Julia Holter. She was eclectic with her airy voice backed by a cello and a violin. She seemed to be in her own ambient world as she sang, looking up into the balcony with a dreamy look. She left the crowd with a calm pensive mood.

After much anticipation, the horns of Beirut appeared, elegantly serenading the crowd like an intricate mariachi band. Zach Condon started to sing and the crowd seemed to hold their breath. His voice was as clear and pure as any recording. This was one a technically sophisticated performance. The complex combinations of instruments such as the flugelhorn, accordion and ukulele, gave this band a truly unique signature sound.

Beirut filled the room with vibrancy. Taking full advantage of the theater’s natural acoustics, the sound resonated throughout. They did not require flashy lights or backgrounds visuals. Keeping it simple allowed everyone to absorb the music and really feel the percussion. It was truly captivating. If Beirut tours through Seattle again, they are a must see, as the full experience is something that cannot be captured in any medium.