On February 22, 2025, Vancouver‘s Commodore Ballroom hosted an electrifying night of music featuring Phantogram, with Ginger & The Peppers as the opening act.
Hailing from São Paulo, Brazil, Ginger & The Peppers have been making waves since their formation in 2020. The five-member band-though performing as a four-piece for this show-opened the evening with a dynamic performance that showcased their unique blend of modern rock infused with classic influences. Missing from the lineup was guitarist Paulo Gonzaga, who was unable to make the show. In a humorous twist, the band placed a life-sized cardboard cutout of him on stage to keep up appearances. The crowd got a kick out of the playful gesture, and the band carried on with infectious energy.
Their set included the anthemic single Out of Phase, characterized by intricate guitar riffs and powerful vocals. Despite being a member down, the group’s chemistry and stage presence effectively warmed up the crowd, setting a high bar for the night’s main act.
Taking the stage at 9:20 PM, Phantogram-comprised of lifelong friends Sarah Barthel and Josh Carter-delivered a mesmerizing performance as part of their Running Through Colors tour. The duo’s setlist was a well-curated mix of fan favorites and tracks from their latest album, Memory of a Day. Highlights included the opening track Jealousy, the haunting Fall in Love, and the new single Attaway, which captivated the audience with its lush, shoegaze-inspired sound. The encore included crowd-pleasers You Don’t Get Me High Anymore and When I’m Small, leaving fans in a state of euphoria.
Phantogram’s performance was enhanced by a visually stunning light show and impeccable sound quality, elements that have become hallmarks of their live shows. The chemistry between Barthel and Carter was palpable, and their interaction with the audience created an intimate atmosphere despite the venue’s capacity.
Overall, the evening was a testament to Phantogram’s evolution as artists and their ability to connect with fans through both their music and live performances. Ginger & The Peppers proved to be a formidable opening act, handling their missing member situation with humor and delivering a spirited performance that left a lasting impression.
