Satan Said Dance — Clap Your Hands at Casbah

Hailed as the hottest unsigned act in 2005, the Brooklyn-via Philly Clap Your Hands Say Yeah kicked off their current North American tour with a first-rate performance in front of a sold-out crowd at the Casbah. Lead singer Alec Ounsworth and crew balanced their set between the impressive self-titled debut album and their most recent release, Hysterical.

Judging by the band’s facial expressions, they were surprised by the overwhelming response from the crowd. The eager audience was in sync with Ounsworth during the band’s cluttered yet controlled rendition of “Satan Said Dance.” Strong cuts “Let the Cool Goddess Rust Away” and “The Skin of My Yellow Country Teeth” from the band’s eponymous debut felt nostalgic. Instead of keeping the crowd waiting for the ceremonial encore, CYHSY remained onstage to finish off the set with a few more memorable takes.

While Ounsworth’s high-pitched vocals are an acquired taste, the music and songcraft are the real rewards for Clap Your Hands fans.

• Concert: Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
• Seats: General
• Date: May 18
• Venue: Casbah