fun. Live up to Their Name

By MARINA BONANNO

Last Wednesday night 480 Mary Washington students impatiently stood outside the Great Hall awaiting the arrival of the New York based indie pop band, fun.

fun. was formed by Nate Ruess, formerly a member of the indie rock band The Format. Incredible drums, keyboard, bass guitar and vocals by the multi-talented Emily Moore accompanied the band’s lead singer on Wednesday night, along with colorful neon lights that reflected on the Great Hall ceiling.

“I loved the lights, and the energy of the performance was awesome,” said UMW sophomore Mary Cornell. “You could tell the lead singer was really into it and the student body responded just as enthusiastically.”

fun. played their recent hit “We Are Young,” featuring Janelle Monáe, the lead single from their new album “Some Nights.” The song climbed the charts shortly after its release in September 2011 and was featured in the 2012 Super Bowl during Chevy’s Sonic vehicle commercial.

Crowd surfers lined the show, and students did not shy away from their excitement. Reuss encouraged the students to sing along and even took a few minutes to poke fun at the mascot eagle that came to the show.
fun. also played two acoustic songs from their album “Aim and Ignite,” including “The Gambler,” a song about the love between Ruess’ parents.

The bands new album, “Some Nights,” combines hip-hop elements wit the unique and catchy melodies written by Ruess and band members Andrew Dost, and Jack Antonoff for a lively and memorable collection of songs.
“Some Nights,” will be released on Feb. 21, 2012 however, fun. streamed the album online to thank fans for their support.

Ruess posted a tribute to fans on the band’s website ournameisfun.com saying, “For almost 10 years you guys have given me something to belong to and I sincerely hope that this album belongs to you. It’s ended up being our way of saying “thank you” for being who you are. And please keep being that person.”

The love for their fans was well reflected in their performance on Wednesday night, and they were very well received at UMW.

Sophomore Jordan Kyler said, “fun. was definitely one of the better live shows I’ve seen a band put on. Their stage presence was lively and interactive.”

fun’s performance at UMW was a short preview to their tour, which will return to Virginia on May 5, 2012 in Charlottesville at the Jefferson Theater.

Image courtesy of Kyle Lefler