As the sun began to set over the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, M83 took the main stage for a memorable performance during the first weekend of Coachella 2016. This set was particularly significant as it came just one week after the release of their seventh studio album, "Junk". The timing offered the massive festival crowd one of the first opportunities to hear the new, synth-pop-infused tracks live.
Anthony Gonzalez, the creative force behind M83, led his band through a powerful set that blended fresh material with beloved anthems. The performance opened with "Reunion," a soaring track from their breakthrough album "Hurry Up, We're Dreaming," immediately igniting the audience. They then launched into "Do It, Try It," a lead single from the new album, showcasing the playful, '80s-inspired direction of "Junk". The setlist masterfully balanced the grand, cinematic soundscapes of older fan favorites like "Midnight City" and "Wait" with the quirky, vibrant energy of new songs such as "Go!".
Known for their immersive and sonically expansive live shows, M83 delivered a visually stunning performance complete with a dynamic light show that amplified the emotional weight of their music. The full band setup, featuring live drums, guitars, and multiple keyboardists, translated the intricate layers of their studio recordings into a powerful and cohesive concert experience. This Coachella performance was a triumphant moment, capturing a band in transition and sharing their artistic evolution with an ecstatic audience.