The Octopus Project @ KFN

Clearly I like this band. I've seen them a few times now and they never disappoint. I must admit, however, that I am very confused about what transpired at their recent show at Kung Fu Necktie.

 #1 The show was sold-out before the show date which is odd considering that they are a small electro-indie dance band from Austin, TX and every other time I've seen them, the audience was prolly about two people deep.

#2 The show was FULL of college kids. Now I am not talking about West Philly I-<3-Urban-Outfitters-and-fixies kind of college kids, I am talking Temple Northeasty I-like-to-start-fights-with-my-friends kind of college kids. One group of what could best be classified as "bros" came in a neon bachelor bus as their first stop on what I can only imagine was a trip to Delilah's. I also had to prop up several drunken ladies grinding on their friends in desperate pleas for attention. Which they received, mind you, from a guy next to me who danced like what I imagine Matthew McConaughey dances like and another who reminded me of the nervous boys at an 8th grade Rec Center dance complete with hoodie, baggy pants, and diamond studs.

Apparently, the Project is big on campus.

#3 The dance-floor was extremely active and at some times violent. I have GOT to give it to those kids for their enthusiasm. They were downright inspiring. As I watched, I could not keep the smile from my face. The crowd was so into this band, so eager to dance, it made me long for the days when being smug wasn't a show-goers most necessary accessory.

I know I am not the only one that noticed this unexpected surge of crowd appreciation. By the end of the set, their keyboard player was blowing kisses and the lead singer was inviting people to "come say hi" to him as he would be sitting in a booth after the show... just like everyone else that plays at KFN. It was truly magical to witness a small band receive such amazing feedback from a crowd so eager to supply it.