Franz Ferdinand stormed the stage at Vancouver’s Commodore Ballroom Tuesday night, delivering a high-octane, dance-fueled performance that turned the first night of their two-night stopover into a full-blown indie rock celebration. From the moment the lights dropped to the last explosive note of This Fire, the Glasgow band had the crowd in the palm of their hands—dancing, singing, and waving their arms in sync with every beat.
Frontman Alex Kapranos was a magnetic force all night long, oozing charisma as he interacted constantly with the crowd. Equal parts rockstar and ringleader, he was all over the stage—leaping into the air with dramatic high kicks, bending backward over his guitar, and looking like he spent as much time airborne as he did on solid ground. His raw enthusiasm lit a fire under the room that never let up.
But this wasn’t a one-man show. Dino Bardot shredded with effortless swagger on guitar, trading off leads with precision and attitude, while Bob Hardy anchored the entire night with basslines that were smooth, groovy, and unshakably cool. Behind them, Audrey Tait proved to be the secret weapon—her drumming was sharp, dynamic, and downright commanding, driving every beat with fierce precision and explosive rhythm.
The night kicked off with Night Or Day, setting the tone with pulsing grooves and immediate momentum. Walk Away and Audacious followed suit, sparking early singalongs before No You Girls sent the room into a frenzy. The live debut of Everydaydreamer hit with dreamy textures and a hypnotic rhythm, showcasing the band’s evolution while staying true to their signature swagger.
Do You Want To ignited a huge cheer and a full-venue shout-back, proving its timelessness, while Matinee, Michael, and Ulysses kept the tempo high and hips moving. The band’s synergy was tight, polished, and powerful—every note calculated but still electric.
Then came Take Me Out, and the Commodore erupted. The song’s iconic riff hit like a tidal wave, and the crowd bounced so hard you’d forget the venue’s famously springy floor had been replaced years ago. It felt like the entire room was being lifted off the ground, the collective joy blasting upward like steam from a pressure valve. It wasn’t just a highlight—it was a moment. And it was glorious.
The closing run—Darts of Pleasure, Hooked, The Birds, and This Fire—sealed the deal, leaving fans sweaty, breathless, and completely satisfied. It was a night of pure celebration, bridging eras of Franz Ferdinand’s career with a vibrant urgency that proves they’re still one of the most exciting live bands on the planet.
Vancouver, night one was unforgettable—night two had a hell of an act to follow.
Leave a reply