Placebo to Turn Out Club Nokia

Kaitlin Beauchemin

Formed in London in 1994, english alt-rock band Placebo have managed an impressive 20­-year career with a large following, particularly overseas. Known for their angsty­-glam sound and androgynous onstage aesthetic, the band experienced a sudden surge of success in the U.S. when their 1998 single “Pure Morning” catapulted into Billboard’s Top 20. While they never managed to reach the same level of commercial success in the states, Placebo continued to maintain a steady level of popularity and fervent fanbase at home in the U.K.

One of the brit­-rockers’ biggest fans is the glam king himself: David Bowie. Impressed by an early demo of the band’s, Bowie brought them on as the opening act of his “Outside” tour for several European shows in 1996. He also invited them to play at his fiftieth birthday bash at Madison Square Garden later in 1997, solidifying their increasingly prominent reputation in the U.K. as a band to pay close attention to.

Placebo’s most recent release, 2013’s “Loud Like Love,” showcases the group’s steady move towards a more industrial sound than their original efforts. Tracks like “Scene of the Crime” and “A Million Little Pieces” feel a bit outdated and, even, a little lazy in their composition. Title track “Loud Like Love,” however, is a true standout, soaring with earnesty and a poppy melodiousness that harkens back to their 1996 single, “Teenage Angst”.

Located at L.A. Live in downtown Los Angeles, Club Nokia is a monstrous venue, seating 7,100 and containing one of the largest indoor stages in the United States. Ever since its inception in 2007, the venue has been a hot location for award ceremonies; the Espy Awards, American Music Awards, and Emmy Awards are all held at this spacious theater. Musical artists including The Eagles and The Dixie Chicks have performed at the venue as well.

Placebo will take the stage at Club Nokia on Friday, Oct. 24, with opening band The Moth and the Flame. Tickets can be purchased here.