Band or DJ? RAC

Loaded with catchy hooks and lots of synth, RAC’s original material and remixes carry a strong, unparalleled energy that’s bound to get you dancing – voluntarily or involuntarily. Their songs will stay in your head whether you like it or not (and you will undoubtedly like it). Not surprisingly, the energy transferred from their recordings to the live stage with zero trouble at all. RAC came to the Sinclair armed with an extensive light set­up reminiscent of an EDM show, adding to the already party-­like atmosphere. The set drew from both their wide repertoire of remixes and their newer material, each song fading into the next like a DJ set. Minimal interruptions to thank the fans or to introduce the next song were the only quiet moments of the evening.Based on audience cheers and excitement, it was clear that the remixes were the highlights of the night. RAC hit all their signature remixes, like Two Door Cinema Club’s “Something Good Can Work,” Lana Del Rey’s “Blue Jeans,” and Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zero’s “Home” (during which the mastermind behind the group, Andre Allen Anjos, encouraged the crowd to “sing along if you know it”).

But other reworkings stood out to me, especially the Yeah Yeah Yeah’s “Zero.” Though ripping guitars already fuel the track itself, RAC adds another layer of energy through pumping synth riffs. Small details and additions like these allow RAC to emphasize the essence of the original track in their remixes rather than overhaul it entirely.Though much of the night focused on the remixes, RAC included a fair share of their new material, including “Hollywood,” “Let Go,” “Tourist,” and “Tear You Down.” And on top of all that, the group performed a unique cover of Smashing Pumpkins’ “1979,” featuring the keyboardist, Liz Anjos, on vocals.  Much like their remixes, the material from Strangers features strong, upbeat guitar hooks that never fail to get you dancing (or at least bob your head along).