From the mind of Mark Thwaite comes MGT, a musical project that embodies the classic Goth rock sound that would make even the darkest of hearts swoon. Having seen immense success from the debut record Volumes, featuring the breakout ABBA-cover single “Knowing Me Knowing You” sung by Ville Valo (HIM), MGT began 2018 swinging with the release of brand new album Gemini Nyte. With vocals and lyricism brought to fruition by the impressive Ashton Nyte, Gemini Nyte is a collaborative effort between two musicians that need no introduction, merging their musical experiences together to create this new album. Having played significant roles in other projects such as The Mission, The Awakening, Tricky, Peter Murphy, and so much more- it is clear to hear how years of fostering talent with skill has paid off. Between Nyte’s lyrical style that “meanders through the realms of melancholy introspection” (Ashton Nyte) and impressive melodies from Thwaite that would capture the attention of any listener, it is of no wonder that Gemini Nyte has captivated the ears of so many.
The DNA Lounge in the overcast city of San Francisco played host to the Jyrki 69/MGT west coast tour as the goth rockers made their way on a Sunday night. The live ensemble of MGT on this tour features the talents of former The Mission bassist Richard Rich Vernon and drummer Jared Shavelson, playing epically alongside Mark and Ashton. The dispersed crowd quickly found their way to the front of the stage upon MGT’s stage set up being completed, excited and ready to dance along to the music. The intimacy of the venue made for a rather engaging performance and laid the perfect backdrop for such an act.
It was a pleasure to witness the individualistic performance styles that each band member brought to the stage. Vocalist Ashton Nyte had a magnetic presence, one that could seldom tear away a glance. His graceful movements brought a whole new element to the songs themselves, one that is always greatly appreciated in a live act. Audience interaction was certainly not lost on the singer, as Nyte could be seen frequently engaging with the fans at the front of the stage, kneeling down and singing directly to the audience. Mark Thwaite let his musical genius show with striking riffs and absolutely gorgeous instruments that created quite a light show with their reflectivity. Rarely missing a moment to pose with his exquisite instruments, Mark made it well-known that the stage was his home. Richard could be seen delving deep into the sound of each tune, with his instrumental talent being well highlighted. Percussionist Jared drummed notable and energetic beats behind his kit. Despite the small stage, the lads used every inch of space to their advantage- gracing the audience with a fabulous performance that certainly left a lasting impression on all those privy of being there.
The set list electrified the audience with a notable diversity- from calming ballads to energetic rock performance. “The Reaping” and “Armageddon’s Sideshow” wrought forth a dark but heavier sound, while the single “Every Little Dream” added a bit of a more optimistic sound, and the ballad “Trading Faces” was a beautifully calm addition to the list. The set list included a special treat for fans with a song from The Mission (“Butterfly on a Wheel”) and one from The Awakening (“Fault”). The performance concluded with Nyte’s vocals on “Knowing Me Knowing You”, an excellent finish to a splendid act.
It would be deeply regrettable not to catch MGT live, and with only a few West Coast dates left, be sure to hop on over to the band’s official website and make your way to the next show.
Set List:
Intro/Jesamine
The Reaping
Every Little Dream
Armageddon’s Sideshow
Everything Undone
All the Broken Things
Seconds
Trading Faces
Dystopia
Assembly Line
Fault
Butterfly on a Wheel
Knowing Me Knowing You
MGT
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