Pat Grossi has come a long way. Once a choirboy from New Jersey, the LA-based singer-songwriter now performs top rated shows around the world as Active Child. Concluding his recent tour in support of his latest EP Rapor, concertgoers at the El Rey showered him with cheer and applause as he confessed “it’s good to be home LA! It is a dream come true to be up here with all these synths, singers and angels.”
Wreaths, statues, and classical accents adorned the stage, as a spotlight illuminated Grossi’s frame with divine rays. A rare tranquility descended upon the music hall as he settled in and hugged his harp, accompanied by choir, string quartet, and bandmates.
Active Child’s set began with calm and moody favorites like “Johnny Belinda,” “High Priestess” and “Hanging On” that helped to build his initial acclaim. By mid-show, Grossi swapped strings for synths to jam out to newer songs. Noticeably, the EP tracks like “Calling in the Name of Love” and “Feeling Is Gone” still showcase Grossi’s distinctive falsetto but they feature fatter beats and power synths found across 80’s New Wave/Pop and 90’s R&B. Performing song after song with confidence and control, it was clear that Grossi was in his zone.
Singles “Subtle” and “Silhouette”, which include top features from Mikky Ekko and Ellie Goulding, concluded the night and by the sounds of audience vocals, it was a good choice.
For a guy who recently was playing free residencies on the Eastside, Active Child has certainly come a long way. Cheers to that!
Opening the show was Lawrence Rothman and JMSN.