Bands are supposed to be bigger than you or me. From Sigur Ros’ screen that separates them from the audience, to the Decemberists’ ‘high school play gone awry’ atmosphere, people expect something more than just people. And last night, that’s exactly what De Novo Dahl gave us.

MP3: De Novo Dahl - Shout

Watching De Novo Dahl during soundcheck was a bit strange. I was used to seeing them in matching white and neon jumpsuits or the yellow and red outfits that looked like bathing suits from the 1800s, not jeans and tshirts. That’s when I realized that their outfits aren’t just a gimmick, it’s almost something supernatural.

Blame it on the uniforms, but De Novo Dahl’s show last night was one of the best I’ve seen in a while. They were talkative, energetic and glad to be playing–even though there were only around 20 in attendance. After going through three songs with the audience bobbing their heads while seated, lead singer Joel pointed out that they play dancing music and that it’s a shame we weren’t dancing. With that, we were all up on our feet and dancing like the fools we were. Later, their keyboardist Arlo showed us the joys of sliding on your socks around the venue and the concert was never the same.

MP3: De Novo Dahl - Subject of the Kill

After their kick drum pedal broke, I realized something. It wasn’t the best show I’d ever been to, but it was one of the most fun. De Novo Dahl are great showmen, and good sports. Rather than continue on kick drum-less (which sounded fine), they got one of the members of the opening band to bang on it. It was unorganized, hilariously and a rollicking good time. In short, it was a great celebration of the joy that is a De Novo Dahl show.

De Novo Dahl will be playing with Forget Cassettes at The Dame on Thursday.