With their new album Sidewalks scheduled to be released in a couple of weeks, the dynamic duo known as Matt & Kim returned to Atlanta’s Masquerade this past Saturday night. To celebrate the new record, all those who arrived to the show early were treated to a sneak preview of the album. But even for those who didn’t arrive in time for a first listen of their third album, Matt & Kim provided all they could want and more throughout their highly energetic and upbeat set.
From the moment Matt Johnson and Kim Schifino took the stage, their synth-laden pop-punk infectiously filled the Heaven room of the Masquerade. The Brooklynite duo kicked off their set with songs including older singles “Good Ol’ Fashion Nightmare” and “Lessons Learned,” while interluding between songs with a series of popular riffs and samples—including “Jump On It,” “Jump Around” and “The Final Countdown.” Matt & Kim carried on in relentless fashion song after song with what has become their trademark unbridled enthusiasm and banter. And the crowd embraced the two, partaking in everything from blowing up balloons passed out by the band to holding up Schifino’s feet as she stood up and danced atop the crowd. Johnson was equally into the show, continuously bantering throughout their set, adding his hilarious remarks like “Anytime I touch my bangs like fuckin’ Bieber here, just take a drink.”
The group closed with their biggest hit to date “Daylight”—“a song for anyone who’s had a bad day or week” Johnson explained. “A lot of people have told that this song has really helped them out a lot.” Matt & Kim went out with a bang, concluding their set on a high note before leaving to the sounds of Jay-Z’s “Empire State of Mind.” As they approached the crowd, shook hands and embraced with audience members, Matt & Kim proved that there was no need for an encore, especially given the way they came out and not only matched, but surpassed their audience’s energy.
