Parlor Mob Rocks Webster Hall

The Parlor Mob’s show at The Studio at Webster Hall New York City on Sept. 12 was awesome, face-melting sweetness.

It was sweaty, packed and loud. It rocked and raged away any residual case of the Monday’s. But above all else, they’re performance was, in its purist and most notable sense, impressive.

The band performed all their songs from the upcoming album “Dogs,” which will be released October 11. The high voltage single “Into The Sun” off the album is currently available via their Facebook page. The only action necessary to receive the free download is to join the over 10,000 others who have already liked the fan page.

Webster Hall was packed from the door to the bar with volume hungry fans that left the show fully sated in the wake of The Parlor Mob’s raw and undeniable talent. Even though “Dogs” is still a month away from its official release many among the crowd were up on the new songs and didn’t hesitate to sing along with lead vocalist Mark Melicia.

But it wasn’t just their performance that demands respect. They arrived at Webster Hall only after they’d done a mic check at The Darby for MUSE Magazine’s fashion week event. After the show the band rushed to pack their gear back into the van and get up to MUSE’s event. After they escaped the rush of attention and fanfare from a grateful and excited post-show loiterers they were on the road.

Guitarist Dave Rosen mentioned on the band’s website (www.theparlormob.com) that a brick was thrown through his car window and whomever the perpetrator is made off with his “entire pedal board and two guitars; a customized Gretsch double jet and a 1947 Harmony Archtop.” His professionalism in light of the tragedy of theft reinforces the obvious strength that is The Parlor Mob.

They aren’t the only band to get robbed on a big night this year. Portugal the Man had their van and trailer stolen at Lollapalooza in Chicago early August.

To add an injury to the band’s insult, drummer Sam Bey smashed his fingers up during their set at Webster Hall. The injury was considerably enough for Rosen to post a comment about it today on their website. But the show must go on, so Bey taped up his fingers and rocked the grandiose Darby right after.

Guitarist Paul Richie stood shoulder to shoulder with Melicia as did bassist Anthony Chick with Rosen on the cozy Studio stage. In combination with Bey they imbued their audience with a visceral emotion of true satisfaction and an anxious anticipation for “Dogs’” release.

London punk rockers TAT and the New Jersey indie pop/rock quartet Escape Directors started the show with a skill and energy that is rarely even approached by an opener. TAT amped up the crowd till everyone in the intimate venue were shouting praise and adoration.

The Parlor Mob’s natural attribute to rouse and excite a crowd coupled with their humble stage presence makes them a phenomenal band to listen to and a luxury to see perform. As Melicia backs away from the microphone in a shy manner the bands intense sound is balanced by a sense of vulnerability. Melicia had few words for the crowd besides a word of thanks. Undoubtedly, many will respond with the same.

Photos by Ryan Sit