In the midst of the Just Like Heaven music festival, there was a performance that transcended the boundaries of time and sound. MGMT's electrifying rendition of their seminal album, "Oracular Spectacular," at The Rose Bowl in Pasadena was a captivating journey that left the audience in awe and filled with an overwhelming sense of musical wonder. The nostalgia alone would have been enough to make this a memorable performance, but the fans were not let down by the performance that was about to ensue. 

From the moment MGMT took the stage, there was an air of anticipation and excitement that swept through the crowd. The opening notes of an orchestral arrangement filled the air, creating a symphonic atmosphere that set the stage for the sonic adventure that was about to unfold. Phones remained in the air and on record while an Elizabethan period dressed ensemble danced their way on stage. As the sound swelled, the anticipation reached its peak, and the crowd erupted in cheers as the band emerged, ready to take us on a nostalgic and enchanting ride.

With the first chord, the familiar melodies of "Time to Pretend" reverberated through the venue, evoking a wave of nostalgia and excitement. It was as if the audience had been transported back in time to the release of "Oracular Spectacular" itself. The crowd, well-versed in the album's tracks, sang along with every word, their voices blending with the band's harmonies to create a sense of unity and shared connection.

And to be as clear as possible…this was the furthest thing from a press play performance of the album…the live performance of Electric Feel took our writers by surprise when they immediately felt the funk knob turned up to eleven. Andrew’s ownership of that funky bass line had us wishing the song lasted 10 more minutes. We were swaying and dancing to the beat of our favorite song performed that night.

The stage itself became a visual spectacle that complemented the music perfectly. Hilarious skits featuring oversized ceramic heads of the duo added an element of whimsy and playfulness to the performance, eliciting laughter and delight from the crowd. The use of lighting and projections created a mesmerizing visual backdrop, transporting the audience to a realm of vibrant colors and dreamlike imagery. Each song was accompanied by stunning visual cues, enhancing the overall sensory experience and further immersing the audience in MGMT's psychedelic universe.

Throughout the set, MGMT's stage presence was magnetic. The duo's chemistry and genuine love for their craft were palpable, creating an intimate connection with the crowd. Lead singer Andrew VanWyngarden's vocals soared with emotion, effortlessly conveying the depth and introspection behind the album's lyrics. Ben Goldwasser's masterful command of keyboards and synthesizers provided the sonic foundation that enveloped the audience, while the rest of the band members brought their own unique talents, adding layers of richness to the music.

As the album drew to a crescendo finish with the final song on the album, “Future Reflections”, the crowd was in for another treat…The band encored with the hit from their 2005 “Time to Pretend” LP, “Love Always Remains”. They brought out the entire crew including the Shakespearean dancers, oversidzed ceramic heads of 2002 Andrew and Ben, and the youth choir to bring this life-changing experience to a close.

The culmination of MGMT's performance was met with thunderous applause and a standing ovation. The crowd, fully immersed in the sonic journey, expressed their profound appreciation for the band's artistry and the impact of "Oracular Spectacular" on their lives. It was a moment of shared connection and collective joy that united everyone present.

MGMT's "Oracular Spectacular" performance at Just Like Heaven was an unforgettable experience that went beyond the confines of time and space. From the opening notes to the final encore, the band showcased their unparalleled talent and delivered a sonic adventure that resonated deeply with fans old and new. The fusion of nostalgic familiarity and renewed artistic expression made it a truly special moment within the festival.

For those fortunate enough to witness MGMT's "Ocular Spectacular" performance, it served as a reminder of the power of music to transport, inspire, and unite. It was a testament to the enduring legacy of the album and the indelible mark MGMT has left on the musical landscape. The performance was a testament to their growth as artists and their ability to continuously captivate audiences with their unique musical vision.

Whether you’re a die hard MGMT fan who knows every lyric to every song on the entire album, or simply a fan of one of their hits from your middle or high school days, we couldn’t recommend more that you take the opportunity to see them perform this groundbreaking album live if you ever have the chance!

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