The Academy Is… (the Alternative Press Fall Ball Tour) @ Avalon Hollywood, Los Angeles 10/14/09

They Academy Is… are definitely one of those bands that I always forget put on a strong live show until I have the chance to see them again. What lead singer William Beckett sometimes lacks in vocal strength, he always makes up for in energy and presence. If I go for months without even hearing an Academy song, I’m still re-indoctrinated whenever I see these five guys on stage, because they’re just that dedicated.

Hollywood scene shows often encourage a weird sort of participation – a mixture of the too-cool, teenage girls in chiffon skirts and eyeliner, and the group of boys who came out specifically to mosh and skank to the band Set Your Goals, which is sort of baffling in and of itself, since Set Your Goals are neither a hardcore nor ska band. I probably would have enjoyed it more if they were some strange combination of the two. In fact, that’s how I felt about most of the other acts on the AP Fall Ball tour, standing around and tuning out songs after the first minute of each set, thinking that everyone sounded a little too much like someone else but not quite good enough to be worth paying close attention.

In this environment, The Academy Is… stood out even more than usual. Being part of a party with six acts means they didn’t even get to play all of their singles, let alone an abundance of songs that weren’t released with videos, but they still managed to hold the attention of the room while they were on stage. As tall and thin and William Beckett is, it always surprises me that he doesn’t come off more gangly and awkward. He moves around the stage easily, throwing around his mic stand and demanding enthusiasm and participation from the audience without seeming too pushy or entitled.

The rest of the band are no less focused. Guitarist Mike Carden in particular always looks like he’s happier to be there than anyone else on stage, and I’m consistently impressed with an appreciative of the fact that Andy “The Butcher” Mrotek is one of those drummers than can successfully play very and hold down most of the backup vocals.

On top of all of that, The Academy Is… are simply a lot of fun. Their charisma doesn’t always come through on the albums, but their stage show is always loud, lively, and engaging, and all without using too much accoutrement. It’s generally just music and genuine excitement, and it’s easy to tell by looking at people’s faces afterward that they’re stepping back feeling thoroughly satisfied.

This time is no different. Even better: they sort of saved the night.