Brits Abroad: Getting Lit Between two Rocks

Australian alt-house group, Rüfüs Du Sol, descended on Denver, CO, to play two astonishing shows at Red Rocks Amphitheatre this past Wednesday and Thursday nights. Touring in support of their latest release, ‘Solace: Remixed,’ the trio tore through a setlist spanning their nearly decade-long back catalogue of dreamy house music.

Formed in 2010, after an impromptu getaway to Byron Bay, Australia, that evolved into a days-long jam session, Rüfüs Du Sol quickly garnered attention in Australia following the release of two EPs, 2011’s ‘RÜFÜS’ and 2012’s ‘Blue.’ The attention caught the interest of Sony Record Label, who released their debut album ‘Atlas’ in 2013. ‘Atlas’ peaked at number one on the Australian charts and opened the door for much greater international exposure with which the band has taken full advantage.

Canadian electronic duo Bob Moses opened things up with their heady mix of deep house and dance as the crowd swelled in size in anticipation for the headline act. Under the clear night sky, overlooking the sparkling lights of Denver, Red Rocks provided the ideal location for an evening of musical and visual pleasure. 

There’s a special feeling at Red Rocks. It really isn’t your typical venue. Nestled between enormous red sandstone outcrops, the stands fan out and stretch up into the night sky from the stage, giving the venue an intimacy not usually found with a capacity of over 9,000. Rüfüs Du Sol’s famed visual performance only served to enhance the wondrous scene. Smoke, lasers and strobes reflected off the rocks, creating one of the most unique atmospheres I’ve witnessed at a show. 

The crowd were on their feet at the moment Rüfüs Du Sol took to the stage and never sat still. Effortlessly shifting pace between fast, bass heavy hits such as ‘No Place’ and ‘Underwater’, and more somber and laid-back tunes like ‘Innerbloom,’ Rüfüs Du Sol had the audience in the palm of their hands with every word being shouted back at them from the crowd. 

Thursday night’s show was the culmination of a US run that stretches back to April and Coachella. The band continue their tour worldwide on to Europe with further dates in Dubai and Australia. Check out the dates and more here: www.rufusdusol.com.