Young the Giant @ Jacobs Pavilion (6/21/23)
While preparing for the Young the Giant show this week I was listening to their discography, and I realized something about the song Cough Syrup. While coming out in 2010, it feels like that song has been around my whole life. It has a specific nostalgia so deep, that it feels like it spans a lifetime. It’s a song that you can put on anywhere in the U.S. and someone in the group will know every word. But Young the Giant is not encapsulated by that single song. With a discography spanning from 2010, to their newest release in 2022 titled “American Bollywood” they have something for everyone.
On the official first day of Summer, Young the Giant entered the stage to an eager crowd. The weather was as beautiful as Cleveland Summers get, and everyone knew they were in for a stellar performance. The stage was designed with a disco ball floating above, and yellow flowers strung to create a reaching sun shape. The show started off with Young the Giant performing the title track from their newest album, and the crowd was instantly into it. After my songs in the photo pit I wandered around, through people dancing and swaying in the crowd. There was such a welcoming vibe with the fans, it was such a pleasant environment.
Young the Giant is an American alternative rock band that emerged in Irvine, California, in 2004. Originally known as The Jakes, the group was formed by high school friends Sameer Gadhia (vocals), Jacob Tilley (guitar), and Eric Cannata (guitar), later joined by Payam Doostzadeh (bass) and Francois Comtois (drums). After building a loyal local following, they gained significant attention in 2010 with their self-titled debut album, which spawned the hit singles "My Body" and "Cough Syrup." Young the Giant's unique blend of catchy melodies, introspective lyrics, and Gadhia's distinctive vocals resonated with audiences, propelling them to mainstream success.
Young the Giant has a full tour ahead of them so make sure to catch a show if you can!
Photos by: Shelly Duncan