“Thank you so much. We’re MUNA, and we’re the greatest band in the world,” might be the last line of the trio’s first live album, yet it also sums up the triumphant experience of the 21-track record.
Going through the motions of the band’s three studio albums, the listeners at home follow the journey MUNA and the fans at The Greek Theatre embarked on in October 2023. Intimate moments, quirky set breaks, and powerful anthems translate well, as it almost feels like you’re right there with them.
The iconic amphitheatre in Los Angeles where the likes of Aretha Franklin, Elton John, and Frank Sinatra have played was the backdrop of their “homecoming” show as the members of MUNA, Katie Gavin, Naomi McPherson, and Josette Maskin met while studying at USC.
Ten years in the making, MUNA has found its way to a large, dedicated fanbase. So much so that the first song, ‘What I Want,’ opens up to overwhelming screams. The album finds a nice way to incorporate the crowd’s enthusiasm without ever taking away from the quality of the set. It also showcases how good the band truly is live, occasionally sounding exactly like the studio versions, often even better.
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Yes, they make excellent indie-pop, but as proven by this record, live shows are their true forte. More emotional tracks ‘Everything,’ and ‘Kind of Girl,’ which The Trans Chorus of Los Angeles accompanied them on, are some of the best moments on the album.
Throughout the recording, the MUNA bandmates really let their individual personalities shine with throwaway comments and the song introductions yet the sentiment that comes across the most – is genuine love and thankfulness to the fans.
Right before ‘Stay Away’ starts, Gavin tells the crowd, “I can’t believe we get to do two nights at the Greek with y’all,” even sharing that the concerts were sold out within five minutes, ending the speech with a request to scream the song along – and oh boy, did the audience deliver.
MUNA, who have opened for the likes of Harry Styles and Taylor Swift, illustrates they can hold their own in ‘Live at The Greek Theatre.’ Setting up a future in which more live albums are a sure thing. Constantly tip-toeing the line between raw intimateness and playful dance sequences, this is a must-listen-to record.
The last surprise is announced when the words, “Phoebe Bridgers in Latex everybody,” are uttered. Ending the night and album with breakout hit, ‘Silk Chiffon,’ allows the party vibes to transport you to the scene, making you mourn that the hour-and-a-half compilation is over. Luckily, with the ‘Live at The Greek Theatre in Los Angeles,’ a replay is one click away.
8/10
Words: Lauren deHollogne
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