Pixel Grip at the Pearl in Vancouver

Continuing their “Percepticide Tour” and supporting their latest album of the same name, Pixel Grip brought their unique blend of dark electronic pop synth to Vancouver’s Pearl theater this past Wednesday night. We’ve dabbled in the band these last few years – friends have recommended them, and if you flip through their latest work on your favourite music streaming service and you’ll find something that suits you. Oversexed lyrics? Sometimes. Driving bass and haunting, surreal lyrics? Here and there. But the very first point we need to make is this: Pixel Grip’s albums – while great – need to be experienced live. It’s not the same, and it’s not something I can explain.

In person, Pixel Grip hits much, much harder. It was an entirely different experience for me, I’m sure in part due to the awesome crowd and the smaller, more intimate nature of the Pearl. Nothing would make me happier than Pixel Grip moving up to something like the Vogue or the Commodore – think of the lights they could use! The pretty, photographer friendly lights! – but you want to be as up close and personal to the band as possible.

Lead singer Rita Lukea kept everyone’s eyes on her whenever she was on stage, and while the openers might have benefited from more space, she seemed more than happy to clear out the centre and slip between an endless number of poses. Pixel Grip has dialed in their brand on this tour; it’s something you have to experience to believe.

We hope you got out to the show this week with us all. If not, Check out our favourite photos of the night below or head to our Facebook page for the full gallery!

PIXEL GRIP

All Photo Credit: Jason Martin