As things start to open back up and life slowly returns to “normal”, to get back into the swing of things, New York’s Macseal revisits their earlier work and releases live versions of their 2015 self-titled EP.
Macseal’s inaugural EP includes funky guitar riffs, raw, emotional vocals, and energetic drums that put an east coast spin on the midwest emo sound. Songs like “Cats” and “5:45 A.m” are fantastically nostalgic pieces that, if you close your eyes, will bring forth visions of a crowded show where everyone is moshing and dancing, collectively feeling the music togeth
er in a way that hasn’t been done in a long time but is likely to happen again soon. Macseal EP hosts timeless emo anthems all while bringing up feelings of teenage nostalgia.
Macseal’s live versions aren’t too far off from their 2015 recorded versions, but there are a couple of extra elements to note. The live ambiance of the Two Worlds Studio recording elevates some of the band’s best music when it’s played live for the first time with the full band intact. And with the enticing camerawork showcasing each member playing passionately, these new versions are truly worth a watch and a listen. “We re-recorded this record because for a long time we only had this EP on a cassette tape, and when we were given the opportunity to re-record it live, we jumped at it,” lead singer Ryan Bartlett says.
While the current concert climate is still tentative, live outdoor shows are slowly making an appearance. Macseal’s upcoming summer tour is drumming up a lot of excitement (both in New York and here in Boston) and the band is definitely itching to perform again. “Our Long Island show is going to be our first official show back. Everyone there is going to be our friends, family, and longtime fans, and we’re really excited to perform for the first time again in front of such a supportive crowd,” drummer Frankie says. ”But even after all that, Boston truly feels more like a homecoming show, so we’re really excited to perform there again.”
When watching these videos, it’s hard to believe that this is the first time they had been in a room together since their appearance on the 25-Hour Ratboys Halloween Telethon in October of 2020. “I was pretty emotional seeing all of my bandmates again,” Frankie says. “Even though we were wearing masks and not hugging, we were together playing music again and for a bit it made me forget how bad everything was.”
Macseal EP (live at Two Worlds) is available now on YouTube. Watch it below. Click here to purchase tickets to their July 16th show at ONCE x Boynton Yards.