The Online Reflector

4.5 stars.

A fantastic showcase of independent rock in ideal weather conditions concluded the end of the summer concert series on the White River State Park lawn Aug. 29.  The performances by Lady Danville, Jack’s Mannequin and Guster each showcased the unique talents of the ensembles in a spectacular fashion.

Relative unknowns Lady Danville were a pleasant surprise, despite their short set list.  Drummer Matt Frankel’s hand-striking of traditional drums brought a more rounded sound to the percussion and the set as whole.  The trio’s vocals blended well together into mellow, emotional songs.  While their original pieces were enjoyable, the group’s mellow, acoustic version of MGMT’s hit “Kids” was the true highlight of the opening act.

McMahon was comfortable moving about the stage as well as at his piano. Photo by Bob Helfst.

After a short stage reset, Jack’s Mannequin began their performance.  Frontman Andrew McMahon’s ever-present Baldwin piano took the usual beating of stomping,jumping and passionate play that has come to set Jack’s Mannequin apart from other indie rockers. McMahon’s stage presence consistently wows audiences and WRSP was no different; His performance was consistently energetic and powerful, moving from piano to either end of the stage during powerful deliveries of the majority of Jack’s hits. Long-time fans of Jack’s Mannequin were treated to many favorites such as “I’m Ready,” “What Gets You Off,” “Bruised” and a reflective version of “Dark Blue.” The true highlight of the performance, however, came in the form of a mash-up of “Made For Each Other,” “You Can Breathe” and other hits. The members of Guster joined for a brief group performance and hinted at McMahon’s return for an encore.

Guster took advantage of the night’s darkness and used lighting heavily in their set list to accent the seasoned performance.  Since forming in 1991 and experiencing only one major bandmate replacement, the band’s instinct for and comfort with each other’s presence and technique showed through the stage. For instance, guitarist Adam Gardner sported only a wry smile when vocalist Ryan Miller donned a psychedelic helmet and cape for modified vocals during one song. Miller went so far as to play a rock ‘n’ roll story describing furniture purchases from an antique warehouse located in Indianapolis, using a ukulele.

The multi-talented Miller also played piano and ukelele.

While Guster’s performance was not as energetic as Jack’s Mannequin’s, the band members were extremely comfortable on stage. Each member also demonstrated supreme musical ability, as each played at least two, if not more instruments. McMahon’s return for a short encore near the end of the evening concluded the summer concert series with promises to return to Indianapolis. The combination of musical talent, passion and all-over fun performances make these groups more than welcome to return soon.

McMahon near the conclusion of his set. Photo by Bob Helfst