Although it’s been over a year since their latest album drop, Passion Pit continues to accelerate with no signs of slowing down, selling out almost every night on the tour so far. Since the emergence of “Sleepyhead” in 2008, the dreamy synth-pop you secretly listened to in high school is suddenly re-evaluated and, well, cool (think hellogoodbye with a better band). The catchy vocal samples, guitar riffs and dreamy lyrics are an unquestionably original combination, mixing rock, electronica and lo-fi pop in a beautiful blend delivered by the fun-loving boys of Passion Pit.

Joining the band for their two consecutive sold-out performances in New York City were Suckers and Tokyo Police Club. A packed lawn of antsy avid listeners waited for their favorite headliner to take the stage in Prospect Park on the first night. The lights dimmed and the familiar intro of “I’ve Got Your Number” accompanied by the heavy bass of Nate Donmoyer’s drumming served as the opening song for the night. Compared to the album version, each member was fully incorporated, coming together to perform a small symphony, while the audience threw limbs up to join the chorus.

It may have been the creepy ghost-ridden island, or hearing the lead singers of Tokyo Police Club and Passion Pit sing a karaoke version of “Bohemian Rhapsody” at the VIP after party, but the second night at Governor’s Island had a better overall atmosphere. There’s no denying that Passion Pit is a band that must be seen live. They have an ability to combine tracks from Chunk of Change and Manners in an innovative way that makes it seem as if they are playing completely new pieces. “Make Light” begins with Michael Angelicos’ celestial wailing, so beautiful and upbeat you would never guess the words were so tormented and painful, a true and honest reflection of falling:

“You must believe to hear me sing these
Messy morsels of my self-assuring love
Oh, it’s painful kneading”

Whether you’re falling in love or tripping on acid, the ambiguous verses make each song universal and relevant to anyone, and honestly, what man these days can pull off a totally original cover of The Cranberries? Check out the set list from the Prospect Park show after the jump.

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Girls & Boys was in full swing last Friday at Webster Hall, where GBH hosted the official Passion Pit concert after party. We knew we could expect great music from Classixx and Holy Ghost!, whom we’ve seen DJ on numerous occasions, but the real surprise came from Passion Pit drummer Nate Donmoyer, also known as Shuttle, who played a strong set to close out the night.

Shuttle delivered a wide range of music in his own distinctive style when he took over the decks at 3 AM. The set included a grimy dubstep remix of “Say My Name” by Destiny’s Child, and a drum & bass interpretation of Aaliyah’s “Are You That Somebody”. Other highlights consisted of Joy Orbison’s “Wet Look”, Emalkay’s “When I Look At You”, and his own remix of “Love Like a Sunset” by Phoenix.

Our one regret was that Shuttle didn’t start sooner; those who left early missed out on a truly unique set. And while Classixx and Holy Ghost! certainly know how to throw a good party, they come around these parts pretty often.

Listen to Shuttle’s remix of “Love Like a Sunset” below, and be sure to check out the photos from the night by Oliver Correa.

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Phoenix – “Love Like a Sunset” (Shuttle Remix)