Alt-J and JBM played Johnny Brenda’s (photos, review, setlist)

Last night, UK up and comers Alt-J played a sold-out show to an extremely amped crowd at Johnny Brenda’s. It was their first time performing in Philadelphia, and the anticipation was palpable. The band made their obligatory comment about eating obligatory cheesesteaks (from underdog Jim’s, no less), but spent most of their time recreating their fantastic debut album An Awesome Wave, slated for a September 18th U.S. release date. The focused young group may not have been the most energetic band, but they excelled where it counts, executing their inspired, dreamy folk and rock. The night began with a healthy set by gauzy-voiced songwriter JBM. He and his band played his pastoral compositions to a enraptured crowd who seemed just as excited for his set as they did for Alt-J. Check out our photos and set list from last night’s show.

Set List:

1. Intro
2. She
3. Tessellate
4. Something Good
5. Dissolve Me
6. Bloodflood
7. MS
8. Fitzpleasure
9. Matilda
10. Breezeblocks
11. Handmade
12. Taro