Armin Fard of L.A. six-piece indie rock outfit badsoma told us about his Mitski experience.
Armin Fard: March 28th, 2024 at the Shrine Auditorium, I saw Mitski's The Land. That was the best show I've ever seen.
I've seen a lot of incredible performances through the years: Radiohead in 2012 at Coachella, Tame Impala in 2022, playing the entirety of Lonerism at Desert Daze, most recently, Japanese Breakfast on their Melancholy Inn run at Pappy and Harriets in Pioneertown, a surreal setting to see a band at the height of their powers.
But Mitski at the Shrine was just on another level. I've never seen a more complete and total artistic expression. It was overwhelming, and just completely mind-blowing. There were all of these stage elements that complemented what was happening sonically. It was exhilarating to watch her give absolutely everything she had and leave it all out on the stage. And the band was incredible, too. The sound felt as big as an orchestra. I remember just sitting there in awe, realizing how physical her entire approach to performance was, and realizing that I was witnessing something really special. I also remember stumbling out of the Auditorium after the show, half-dazed, circling around the USC campus for another hour just so I could regain my whereabouts enough to get myself back home.
This was a show I went to alone. I've been doing that more lately. It's a different kind of experience than going with a group. Being in a group brings with it other dynamics that, in some ways, enhance everything, but sometimes also distract from the music. I can get lost when I'm alone in ways I wouldn't be able to otherwise.
I'm looking forward to seeing Mitski's concert film in theaters soon. There aren't many acts out there who would be able to pull off a concert film worth a theatrical release. If anyone can, she can, and I'm here for it.
badsoma's self-titled EP is out now and can be ordered here.
Photo by Nicole Vail
