Florence and the Machine dazzles at Berkeley's Greek Theater

In pop music where excessive use of both Auto-tune, and DAT tapes at so called live performances seems to be the norm, a singer that can not only fill the expansive space at Berkeley's Greek Theater with the power of her vocals, but also  mesmerize all 8,500 concert goers in the process, are rare. Last night Florence Welch, front woman for Florence + The Machine did just that.

Barefoot and draped in an exquisite  chartreuse gown rumored to be designed specifically for her by Gucci's Frida Giannini, Welch seemed to channel the Greek gods themselves as her thunderous vocals reverberated off the stone amphitheater during My Boy Builds Coffins, and Drumming Song accompanied by a five piece band and a light display that brought electrical storms to my mind.   Later in the show, the audience was once again electrified when Welch and her 'machine' relaxed into breath taking acoustic versions of I'm not calling you a Liar, and Hurricane Drunk.

In addition to performing the bulk of her debut album LUNGS, Welch gave the audience a sneak peek at the band's next album with a first-ever performance of What the Water Gave Me a more melodically complex song that still delivers infectious hooks and portrays the staying power of the band.  (Check out the guerilla video of the song below.)

As the performance ended, on a high note with the majority of the audience gleefully taking part in a jump-along rendition of The Dog Days Are Over, it was clear that their US Summer tour would be one fans and critics alike would be talking about for years to come.

For more information, including remaining dates for the Florence and the Machine US Summer Tour, please visit the band's official homepage.