GALLERY & REVIEW: Vocal Ensemble DeVotchKa in Minneapolis.
- Maddy Rose
- Dec 30, 2024
- 2 min read
Photos & Review by Maddy Rose | @madddsmedia
Sunday nights in downtown Minneapolis are typically quiet and mellow, but on this particular evening, the streets were alive with the vibrant buzz of sports fans, concertgoers, and a palpable sense of excitement. At the heart of it all was the DeVotchKa show at the iconic First Avenue venue—one of the city’s most beloved live music spots. DeVotchKa, the Denver-based multi-instrumental ensemble, was celebrating the 20th anniversary of How It Ends, a record that has been a fan favorite since its release in 2004.
Opening the night was Duluth, Minnesota's own Superior Siren, a band whose eerie, haunting folk sound perfectly set the tone for the evening. Known for their atmospheric music inspired by the folklore of Lake Superior and siren mythology, Superior Siren brings together elements of grief and desire. With two EPs, one LP, and a forthcoming full-length album in the works, the four-piece group took the stage dressed in black and sparkling sequins as deep red lighting bathed the room, and the mournful sound of a cello filled the venue.
Superior Siren opening the set.
When the lights dimmed for DeVotchKa’s set, the energy in the venue shifted. One by one, the members of the band took the stage, and it was clear from the first notes that this was going to be a special night. Lead vocalist Nick Urata guided the crowd through How It Ends, song by song. As the band revisited the album that launched them into the spotlight, the audience was treated to a diverse and dynamic set, each track offering something new while maintaining the signature DeVotchKa sound. The celebration of How It Ends closed off in an unforgettable aerial performance by the SlaVic Sisters, who had previously joined DeVotchKa on stage at First Avenue in 2022. As the band played their encore, the two aerialists twirled above the crowd, suspended from an aerial hoop in a mesmerizing and cinematic performance that was perfectly scored by the ending songs of DeVotchKa’s set.
From the funky, upbeat tracks to the emotionally charged ballads, the entire performance felt like an immersive experience. As the crowd twirled and danced, the whole night felt like a beautifully orchestrated performance—a fitting way to close out the 2024 live music season at one of my favorite Minneapolis venues. During performances such as this one, I’m reminded why I love the live music scene here in Minneapolis. A perfect way to end an amazing year of music.
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