It’s been over a year since the breakout release of Jagwar Ma’s debut LP Howlin, and it’s still safe to say that nothing says summer quite like that record. It’s taken the Australian trio on an astonishingly high trajectory – their NYC show last September took place at the tiny Mercury Lounge (QRO venue review), and on Wednesday, July 30th they packed out Webster Hall (QRO venue review) with ease. Jagwar Ma’s brightly-hued brand of psych rock was always meant for something bigger, whether it’s larger venues or transcending your own mind with tracks like “Four” and “Come Save Me”. Their ability to seamlessly merge the dance and rock worlds means no fear of experimentation, making them one of the most engrossing live acts around. Singer/guitarist Gabriel Winterfield’s natural playfulness always shines through, particularly when he interpolates Michael Jackson’s “Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough” into “Man I Need” or the Cardigans’ “Lovefool” into “The Throw”. This willingness to mix things up is why Jagwar Ma have made their mark as a must-see band, and their heavy touring schedule will make whatever’s coming up next worth the wait.
