The Electric Factory in Philadelphia had quite the Thursday night on October 3, 2013 when Zeds Dead hosted a show during their “Altered States” tour that went until 2 a.m.
This show was expected to be over the top because their last show at Electric Factory was cancelled due to overdoses. Thankfully, thanks to great security and this being an 18+ show, there were no fatalities, and the only thing that was being murdered was the music, although I still can’t feel my body.
Entering the venue, I could hear Colorado native Paper Diamond performing. I have seen Paper Diamond once at Bonnaroo, and he completely stole the show. I was excited to see how he played at a closed concert like this. My man did not disappoint. Playing his songs like “They Can’t Tell Me Nothing” to a ridiculous remix of “Must Be the Feeling” by Nero, Paper Diamond brought just enough funky dub with a mixture of hip-hop and bass.
Making my way to the front row, we landed a spot dead center of the crowd. This crowd was a bit disappointing to say the least but got better as the show went on, or maybe I was just head banging to much to notice anyone else’s expressions.
“The name ‘Altered States' is all about how music has the power to change the way you feel and alter your perceptions. Plus we're both big on wordplay and multiple meanings, and altered states can also be interpreted in that we're touring through “the states” (united states) and altering peoples state of mind as we go.” – Zeds Dead
My mind is still altered to say the least.
I always thought Zeds Dead was a lot of dub and hard bass. Until last night did I realize how they played many genres in many different styles. Playing their originals like “Oh No” “Undah Yuh Skirt” and Coffee Break, their set varied completely from there. Chase and Status “Machine Gun,” Marina & The Diamonds “Lies,” Blue Foundation “Eyes on Fire,” and even some Jimmy Hendrix with an outstanding remix of “Purple Haze.” They finished off with their new song “Shut Up and Sing V 2.0” vocals by Greta Svabo Bech.
Not only was Zeds Dead stage presence felt from all over the venue,they are both sexy, and their visuals had me questioning real life, in the most beautiful way. This show took me to my highest highs and back. Like I said, I still cannot feel my body.
“In this case the artwork came before the tour name – Our artist Callum had done a design that we were really feeling, so much so that we chose to make it the tour art. We based the name “Altered States” on the artwork because it looked psychedelic, kind of working backwards, but that's how it goes sometimes. We're really happy with how it all came together in the end. And this is just the beginning…this is going to be a very exciting tour.”
This show was absolutely amazing, and I am so happy that I got to witness Zeds Dead in Concert. They connect with the audience and will have you leaving wanting more. Do not miss this tour. Check out when they will be coming to a city near you.
