After months of bitter cold and the occasional blizzard, spring has finally arrived at the University. To celebrate the onset of a new season, the University Programs Council hosted Springfest, an annual event featuring food, music and various outdoor activities last Saturday afternoon. Students scattered throughout Lambeth Field to play cornhole, craft flower headbands and enjoy the warm weather. As the day progressed and the temperature got cooler, the atmosphere grew livelier as Made in Heights took the stage to close off the festivities.
Currently based in Los Angeles, Calif., Made in Heights features DJ Alexei Saba and singer Kelsey Bulkin. The two performers worked hand-in-hand to create a unique, eclectic sound, energizing the small but enthusiastic crowd at the concert. Bulkin’s soft vocals contrasted the strong techno beats created by Saba. Throughout the performance, the pair performed various singles — among them “Mantis” and “Skylark Interbang?!” In one short hour, they filled the venue with a distinctively original sound, undoubtedly notifying Lambeth residents of their presence.
Made in Heights’ performance was made even more enjoyable by the performers’ obvious passion and charisma displayed onstage. Saba and Bulkin consistently interacted with audience members, encouraging them to sing or dance along to the music. At one point in the performance, Bulkin stepped down from the stage to sing with students in the front row.
The pair showcased genuine chemistry in their performance. Though Saba primarily served as disc jockey and Bulkin as the main singer, the two would synchronize dance and vocals during a few sets. It was at these times that their evident love for music took center stage.
But successful concerts are two-fold: not only do performers need to put on a good show, but the audience must also reciprocate. Fortunately, the crowd embraced the band’s distinctive sound from the start. Even during unfamiliar songs, audience members welcomed new music wholeheartedly and never retreated from the concert. Glow sticks and bright beach balls created an even more energetic atmosphere.
On the whole, Made in Heights brought Springfest to a new level. Despite being a relatively unknown name in the University community, Made in Heights was welcomed by students to conclude one of UPC’s biggest events of the spring semester. The concert ended with an audience plea for an encore — and though the band couldn’t return the request, this likely will not be the last time the University hears of this dynamic duo.
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