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Concert Thu Sep 16 2010
The Dø @ Schubas Tavern, 9/13
It has been nearly one year to the dot that Finnish-French duo The Dø graced the stage in Chicago and this visit saw them returning with more vigor than ever. In addition, their ease with playing to a live audience continues to grow along with their dynamic stage presence.
The pair was also joined this time around by a percussionist (who had wrenches set up as windchimes and serving plates hung as miniature gongs) and a guitarist. Meanwhile, the lovely Olivia Merilahti played guitar at times and cohort Dan Levy played bass. All of this helped create a rich stage presence to back up the lushness of the melodies with a fantastic sense of cohesive tightness. However, one couldn't deny that Merilahti stole the show with her enchanting energy throughout their hour long set. It was also great to see such chemistry between her and Levy when they gathered close to eachother multiple times to call out the same lyrics with an added gusto.
The audience, filled with many Chicagoans originally from France to show their support, was treated to Merilahti's choreographed dance moves and to her coming to the very tip of the stage to show them her love quite often throughout the set. Merilahti's voice is in itself quite versatile, swooning then climbing to a great height when the song requires it. Her lyrics and accompaniment demonstrate a well rounded balance between pop music and melancholy folk. Some songs are catchy as dance singles should be. Other songs have more nostalgic tones and are ones to simply relish in.
Setlist wise, the songs came primarily from their 2008 (2010 US Release)entitled A Mouthful. Songs like "The Bridge is Broken" and "On My Shoulders" garnered great applause and crowd appreciation. The Dø also played a delicious rendition of a Janelle Monáe's "Tightrope," who incidentally played at Schubas Tavern less than a year ago right where Merilahti was standing. In addition, Merilahti charmed fans with some new songs that will perhaps appear on the band's next sophomore release, giving everyone present a great deal to look forward to.
