Capping off a night of great local talent was one of the most local group of them all. Chico Fellini has recently hit a peak of popularity by releasing a fantastic album and making sure not a month goes by without some activity from them. So even though no one in Lexington has a good excuse for not having seen them half a dozen times, they still managed to fill a big venue with people eager to dance and shout along to their songs.

If the night were to be judged by audience reaction, Chico Fellini might have just edged out both other bands on the bill. Not only did the dyed-in-the-wool fans up front know every word, but the girls behind me occasionally squealed and declared that no, this was their favorite song.

And for my part, I was just as excited during their show. I’d only seen Chico Fellini play outdoor daytime shows, so it was great to catch them at a place that was lit by something other than the sun. Chico Fellini are a dramatic band and it’s hard to be dramatic in 80+ weather and oppressive light. So how did seeing them at a beer-serving, lights-dimmed venue compare? Quite favorably, as expected.

My only complaint is that I’m waiting for lead singer Christopher Dennison to completely lose himself in that fantastic frontman way. I think he’s got it in him to be a really great frontman, but he’s usually content to just provide some kickass vocals — which is more than most bands ever achieve, so that’s more than fine.

Chico Fellini also had an unexpected treat for everyone in attendance. Lexington native Ben Sollee was on hand to provide cello backing to their slower song “Uli.” Ben could have benefited extremely by a big boost in the mix, but he still sounded fantastic.

More photos after the break.