Music

Animal Collective played a private set for two kids too young to attend their show

by Richard Howard

Pretty sure Baltimore’s Animal Collective just won the award for sweethearts of the year. While their experimental pop style that has drawn comparisons to The Beach Boys has garnered them a strong following, their dedication to their fans may be just as instrumental in making those fans as passionate as they are. Case in point: the day before their September 30 Edmonton show, the band discovered that the promoter was unable to secure a permit to facilitate an under-18 show. They assured any underage fans their tickets would be refunded, but also let their young followers know they were attempting to make it up to them then and there.

Turns out, the band was scheming on playing a set during their soundcheck time for underage fans. Here’s the thing. Two kids emailed the band about the mystery offer. To which Animal Collective said “Great, come on down,” and proceeded to play a private show for just them.

I love my boys @anmlcollective private show for these little underage gems today during sound check ! Since they can’t get into the show tonight

A video posted by Abby Portner (@abbyportner) on Sep 30, 2016 at 6:56pm PDT

You know that band you met and came away saying “Boy, they’re really nice”? Yeah, Animal Collective is nicer.