After one of the hottest days Los Angeles has seen this year, locals were in the mood for breath of fresh air. That relief came in Milo Greene.

The band is composed of five members—Robbie Arnett, Graham Fink, Curtis Marrero, Marlana Sheetz, and Andrew Heringer. The interesting fact is, none of the members have an assigned “duty,” or role in the band. They all switch instruments, and take turns singing lead. In fact, some songs are sung in unison.

Needless to say, the performance is very refreshing to watch, observing stage and instrument changes between songs; this is true renaissance group of sorts. They even made a film that explains ther album.

Milo Greene returned for a homecoming to their native Los Angeles after playing at Bonnaroo last week. However, the setting for this particular concert was especially obscure—most people don’t think of cemeteries as a riveting place to share a taste of music.

The "lodge" was haunting, with smoke in the air (or possibly sweat due to the lack of ventilation on a hot summer day). Once the band appeared, however, people seemed to ignore the humidity and embrace the music. 

“Don’t You Give Up on Me,” was the first track played to a great applause, seeing as it is one of the Milo Greene’s more well-known, upbeat songs. The audience also seemed pleased to not have to wait any longer in a place that should have been renamed a sweat lodge. 

The band discussed how “Autumn Tree” was the first song they ever wrote together. Hearing the track on the album, it doesn’t stand out when compared to the rest. However, in concert, it was absolutely the highlight of the night.

The emotion in the vocals and the bitter mention of “cold winter’s aged” induced shivers, despite how everyone (especially the band) was drenched in sweat. The difference between the recorded track and the live version proves how much the band has progressed in such a short amount of time.

“Perfectly Aligned” was an absolute beautiful, almost spiritual, performance with the lead vocals of Marlana Sheetz. The chorus introduction and the pure voice of Sheetz fit "perfectly" with the beat and the hopelessly romantic lyrics. 

Adding to the idyllic tone was “Cutty Love,” a track that describes how dying is alright as long as the couple is together (how fitting given the setting). Also, who can forget “Silent Way,” which is such a simple song that references the intention of loving someone even when you’re old.

“What’s the Matter,” concluded the night and the song was sung as a chorus, with all members joining in. The pure echo of the track is haunting and stirring, reflecting the ambiance. Needless to say, this was the perfect ending to an outstanding performance. 

Other tracks played included “Son My Son,” “Take A Step,” and “1957.”

Another rather original concept for current bands is the number of purely instrumental songs Milo Greene has. In fact, 1/3 of their new album contains instrumental tracks. The band also announced that this would be their last performance for an extended period of time. Not to worry: the reason is they are taking time to work on a new album.

Again, we see this band putting music first. One great thing about there not being a definitive “lead singer,” or spokesperson for the band, is that it allows the music to show be the main focus. Despite the constant changing of vocals and instruments, every song is accomplished flawlessly.

Talent, innovation, and a great amount of hard work have made Milo Greene into one of the most promising indie bands on the scene. With the members taking turns and lending the spotlight to each other, it is evident to see that Milo Greene cares more about the music, not about their own rising status by having one person take center stage. If that isn’t a breath of fresh air in the music business, I don’t know what is. 

Read more of NT's show reviews here.

Reach Staff Reporter Jillian Morabito here.