Ki:Theory opens for Baths at Bowery Ballroom

Written by Paige Cecchi

A slew of youthfuls' headed to the Bowery Ballroom main stage area Friday night. At first, the atmosphere was strangely relaxed for a weekend show in downtown NYC— it didn't stay that way  for long.

Joel Burleson, better known as Ki:Theory-- on a supporting tour for IDM talent, Baths-- was first to perform. You may have heard Ki:Theory's music before. He has tunes in Audi and Converse commercials, however, the live show was better than any advertisement (though I do feel like buying some new Converse kicks now) due to his highly entertaing and frenetic stage energy.

The sound that emanates from Ki:Theory's amps are best described as electro-heavy-rock with acoustic elements. The partygoers vibed to the deep bass as it overtook the venue and morphed it into a vibrating wonderland. Between sets, Ki:Theory was found mingling with the more mature audience at the basement bar, where fans finally got their chance to meet with the band. High-fives all around (who knew people still high-five?), Ki:Theory put on an eclectic performance not to be forgotten.

     photo credit: Brian Uribe

Between sets, the crowd impatiently waited for Baths, as the stage-crew riddled the stage with LED lights and plastic tea-light candles to set the mood. A surge of excitement swept the dance floor as Baths dropped his unusual sounds, which he layers in and around the electronics. Heads began to nod, bodies began moving, and once the bass dropped the whole room was in motion, and remained there until the lights came on (boooooo!).

“I guess this is what it’s like to play the Bowery Ballroom,” Baths said while fans continued to dance the night away.