Khruangbin @ Granary Live 08.24

Last Saturday, Khruangbin took the stage at Granary Live, transforming the venue into a psychedelic wonderland filled with instrumental grooves and an audience ready to vibe. With a sold-out show and a crowd that knew exactly why they were there, it was an unforgettable night of music, atmosphere and pure enjoyment.

The evening kicked off with an opening set by New Delhi-based alt-rock band Peter Cat Recording Co., who set a chilled yet vibey tone for the night. Their unique blend of sound, featuring a saxophone player who also doubled on keys and “banana,” created an eclectic and laid-back atmosphere that matched the night’s theme perfectly. The crowd was already swaying to the music, the wind adding a natural element that almost felt like a paid actor, contributing to the ambiance of the open-air venue.

By the time Khruangbin hit the stage, the audience was ready for their signature mix of instrumental indie and psychedelic sounds. The band did not disappoint. Switching seamlessly between songs, their performance had a continuous flow, each song bleeding into the next like an effortless jam session. Drummer DJ Johnson was particularly captivating, grooving along to the rhythm and drawing the audience into a collective trance. Bassist Laura Lee Ochoea rocked back and forth, adding to the hypnotic effect of the music. Ochea and guitarist Mark Speer seemed to have a telepathic connection, their instruments crossing paths in perfect harmony to create moments of sheer musical magic.

The stage setup was minimalistic yet powerful, with three large window cutouts that changed the lighting and graphics with each song, creating an ever-moving visual experience. The magenta, orange and blue lights, combined with a subtle layer of fog, added a dreamlike quality to the show, perfectly complementing Khruangbin’s sound. It felt like a journey through sound and light, where each note and every visual element contributed to a larger, cohesive experience.

The vibe of the audience was nothing short of magical. At one point, I spotted two fans joyfully singing “yes” to each other during a song, a moment that perfectly captured the collective energy of the night. One of the audience members, Roger Foreman, told me that his main reason for loving Khruangbin was that listening to their album The Universe Smiles Upon You left him with a new, profound outlook on life. That’s pretty powerful, if you ask me. 

If you’ve never seen a Khruangbin show, do yourself a favor and catch them the next chance you get. Their ability to create a soothing yet electrifying atmosphere is unmatched, and their live performance is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Photos By Jess Gruneisen | jess@jessgruneisen.com