Live Review: Band of Horses – Hammerstein Ballroom 8/10/11

The douchebag factor was extremely high at last night’s Band of Horses show at the Hammerstein Ballroom. Guys in polo shirts seemed more interested in texting, checking out the talent, and high-fiving when their absolute, favorite, “I love this song!!!!” song began. So yeah, it was kind of a frat party, but who am I to judge anyone else’s lifestyle preferences. Despite the cavernous proportions of the Hammerstein and the fact that I arrived an hour late (I guess 8PM didn’t mean doors, it meant start time), Band of Horses sounded great. They seem to have fully embraced their “huge band” status,  as Ben Bridwell giddily jabbered to the crowd and lead the band in some of its greatest hits. “Dilly,” “The Funeral,” “LRC,” “No One’s Gonna Love You,” “Weed Party,” even “Evening Kitchen” – Bridwell’s caterwauling, beautiful, tinny soprano soared through the room as guitars were strummed and drums were banged. Band of Horses know how to put on a good show, even if the audience doesn’t know how to shut up and listen.