Phosphorescent and Caveman @ Union Transfer.
Text and images by Kate McCann.
After postponing their Philadelphia show that was scheduled in January because of a heavy snowstorm, Phosphorescent made it back this Sunday with tour-mates Caveman.
Caveman eagerly opened the show – their last date with Phosphorescent – to a late crowd because of another evening of snow. The Brooklyn residents played off their debut album, CoCo Beware, as well as their 2013, self-titled LP. At times there were three members on percussion, blaring heavy indie-pop tunes through almost-excessive, billowing clouds of fog.
During a quick change of set, dozens of candles were lined along the stage and sprigs of incense left Union Transfer smelling like patchouli. Phosphorescent’s Matthew Houck arrived on stage clad in a gold-embroidered white suit with sequenced ankle boots. Though maybe too ostentatious for “Song for Zula,” off their 2013 LP, Muchacho, Houck seemed appropriately dressed while dancing during “Ride On/Right On.”
Despite breaking his guitar just before their set, Houck commanded a full house and made light of the incident by poking fun at Buddy Holly and Green Day.
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JUMP: The Philly Music Project 
I’m crazy about Phosphorescent. This was the first time I saw them live. Houck’s voice — high lonesome cracking and yet under control — is the soul of this music. His solo cover of a Willy Nelson tune late in the show was, for me, a highlight, if not a hit. These guys could be a serious alt-country act, as well as doing the neo-hippy scene. I love them.