Words and photos by Jenny Shackleton

Roseland Ballroom was alive with energy last week as Phantogram took the stage for a captivating performance. The show opened with a dazzling mix of strobe lights and heavy fog, creating an ethereal atmosphere. As the fog enveloped the stage, the enchanting voice of lead singer Sarah Barthel resonated through the venue, captivating the audience from the very first note. The anticipation in the air was palpable as the crowd eagerly awaited the moment when the performers would emerge from the mist.

As the show progressed, the fog gradually settled, revealing the band members as they descended from the elevated platform to the regular stage level. This transition allowed the packed crowd to see them clearly and interact more intimately with the performers. The audience, packed like sardines, struggled to keep the aisles clear for fire safety, with security working tirelessly to maintain order. Despite the tight quarters, everyone was eager to get a good look at the captivating performers on stage.

The concert continued with a dynamic mix of warm and cool contrasting lights that perfectly complemented the vibe of their latest album, “Memory of a Day,” released in October. The lighting design added depth to the performance, enhancing the emotional journey that the music took the audience on. Each song was a carefully crafted experience, drawing the crowd deeper into the band’s unqiue blend of hard-hitting breats, guitar-driven dark psychedelia and electronic pop.

Phantogram’s latest album, “Memory of a Day,” produced by GRAMMY-award-winning producer John Hill, has received widespread acclaim from outlets such as NPR, All Music, and FLOOD. The album explores themes of memory and time, capturing the disorienting sense of being transported back to significant moments in one’s life. With singles like “Attaway,” “All A Mystery,” “Come Alive,” and “It Wasn’t Meant To Be,” the album has solidified Phantogram’s place in the music world. Their live performance at Roseland Ballroom was a testament to their ability to create an immersive and unforgettable experience for their fans.

Photographer/Writer | + posts

Jenny Shackleton (she/her) is a photographer based in Portland, OR, originally hailing from Philadelphia, PA. Her love for live music started over 15 years ago after seeing the Jonas Brothers perform on their Burning Up tour in 2008 and the rest is history. As a naturally shy person, it’s surprising she feels so comfortable at concerts with hundreds of people attending, but has always believed that they are special, somewhat liminal, spaces. Everyone is there for the same reason: to have the best night and see artists pour their souls’ onto the stage. That is what Jenny likes to capture in her photos. Jenny enjoys spending time outside with her partner and their dog, watching movies, and owning way too many sneakers.