A few nights ago, Danish rock group New Politics brought their high energy jams to Richmond. On tour with Bikini Trill and The Score, New Politics have spent the month of November traveling the East Coast, playing smaller, more intimate venues, and bringing some of their older songs back into their setlist.
Bikini Trill, an LA based trio that blends electronic, hip-hop beats, and reggae influences started off the night with chill vibes all around. Singer LJ, guitarist Tony, and bassist Roach looked like they were having the best time on stage, playing songs off their recently released EP, “Wassup, We Good?” and their first single, “Sticky Trees.” Bikini Trill was followed up by The Score, who brought a more of an indie rock sound to the stage. The band consists of Eddie Anthony and Edan Dover, who are currently on tour promoting their album, “Atlas.”
After their sets, both Bikini Trill and The Score went back to their merch tables to meet fans and sign autographs. Then it was time for New Politics to take the stage. The band started their set by playing “Loyalties Among Thieves” off their 2015 album, “Vikings,” and continued to play banger after banger, following up with songs “West End Kids” and “50 Feet Tall.”
After a slew of upbeat rock songs, lead singer David Boyd, slowed things down a bit to talk about his experiences as a new father and about writing the ballad “Color Green” for his daughter, Wolfgang. After “Color Green” the band immediately jumped back into upbeat hits “Goodbye Copenhagen” and “Lifeboat.”
Throughout the night, it was clear that Boyd, Søren Hansen (bass), and Louis Vecchio (drums) loved being able to perform together for all of their fans. Hansen dedicated their song about unity and love, “One of Us” to his bandmates and all the fans. One of the best moments of the night was when Boyd played a fan favorite, “Fall Into These Arms” while being held up by the crowd.
Whether playing tiny venues and opening for others or headlining The National, New Politics always gives every show 100%. Their songs are catchy and entertaining to all. Even the opening act, Bikini Trill, was having an awesome time, jamming out in the back of the crowd. New Politics closed out the show hit song “Harlem” and some of Boyd’s signature freestyle dance moves. It was a night filled with high energy and good times all around.
New Politics said they were working on recording a new album, due to be released in the spring of 2019.
Photos by author, Garnette Ransone.