Tuesday night, San Francisco’s Fillmore Auditorium was transformed into a vibrant, otherworldly realm as Magdalena Bay kicked off their highly anticipated tour. With their sophomore album, Imaginary Disk, released just a week ago, the energy in the room was electric as fans eagerly awaited the setlist. The album’s concept-driven format, designed to be experienced in a specific order, heightened the excitement about how the band would blend their new, story-driven material with their beloved older tracks.
Opening with the album’s first track, “She Looks Like Me,” the concert flowed seamlessly despite genre shifts. The haunting, cavernous echoes of the song transitioned effortlessly into the groovy, bass-heavy “Killing Time.” This blend of celestial pop and dance tracks created an intimate and expansive magical atmosphere.
A highlight of the night was the live debut of “Ballad of Matt and Mica,” named for the duo, Mica Tenenbaum and Matthew Lewin. Tenenbaum introduced the song with heartfelt commentary: “Thank you; this is the first time we’re playing this song for a crowd, so it’s really special.” Other standout moments included the dynamic “Image,” which evoked the sensation of dancing under a disco ball until dawn, and the exhilarating climax of “Tunnel Vision,” which gave way to the serene, pink-hued “Love is Everywhere,” complete with projected fireworks.
The crowd’s enthusiasm was infectious, with fans singing along as if Imaginary Disk had been out for months. Visually, the show was stunning, featuring captivating lights and projections on an angel-winged “portal” that created an immersive experience. Subtle costume changes, like a sunflower headdress and glittery rainbow cape, added a whimsical touch, while screens and projections made it feel like a live, interactive music video.
Magdalena Bay’s tour kickoff at the Fillmore was an unforgettable evening, showcasing their growth as artists and their ability to craft a multidimensional experience. If Tuesday night was any indication, this tour promises to be a spectacular journey, with many more nights of captivating music and dazzling visuals to come.
See you next time!
