The Afghan Whigs, formed in Cincinnati in 1986, have long been celebrated for their potent blend of alternative rock and soul. Fronted by the charismatic Greg Dulli, the band has navigated a remarkable career marked by raw, emotive music and deeply personal lyrics. Albums like "Gentlemen" and "1965" have cemented their legacy, and even after a hiatus, their 2011 reunion brought fresh energy to their dedicated fan base.
On June 20, 2024, the Afghan Whigs brought their magnetic presence to the historic Brooklyn Paramount. The venue, with its vintage charm and intimate atmosphere, set the perfect stage for a night of intense musical immersion.
The night kicked off with "Pantomima," a Greg Dulli solo track that immediately pulled the audience into the dark, brooding world of the Whigs. The tension built with "Debonair," showcasing the band's knack for blending haunting melodies with driving rhythms.
"Catch a Colt" followed, its raw energy captivating the crowd, before the hauntingly beautiful "Algiers" cast a spell over the audience. As the opening chords of "66" rang out, the crowd erupted, the seamless transition into "Matamoros" keeping the energy high, with Rick McCollum’s guitar work weaving intricate sonic textures.
"What Jail Is Like" brought a wave of nostalgia, its emotive delivery reminding everyone of the band’s deep lyrical prowess. "Too Tough to Die" and "Light as a Feather" showcased the band's versatility, with soulful undertones and atmospheric arrangements that had the audience swaying.
"Oriole" and "It Kills" maintained the intensity, Greg Dulli’s deep, emotive voice carrying the weight of the songs’ introspective lyrics. The crowd was spellbound, hanging on every note. The tempo picked up with "Demon in Profile" and "Going to Town," tracks that had everyone moving, the band clearly feeding off the crowd's energy.
Photos: Ehud Lazin
As the night drew to a close, the Whigs delivered a powerful quartet of songs: "Somethin' Hot," "Summer's Kiss," "Grapefruit Moon," and "Faded." Each song was a reminder of the band’s enduring ability to tap into the raw, unfiltered emotions that resonate with their audience.
Greg Dulli’s stage presence, the band's tight musicianship, and the perfect blend of old and new tracks made for a night that was both nostalgic and thrillingly new. It was a reminder that, even decades into their career, the Afghan Whigs remain a force to be reckoned with in the world of rock music.
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