New York, May 9, 2007 – The sprawling rock ensemble Arcade Fire launched the first-ever David Bowie-curated High Line Festival with a dazzling spectacle at Radio City Music Hall on Wednesday. Arcade Fire filled the stage with ten musicians, at least twice as many instruments (guitars, violins, mandolin, drums of various sizes and shapes, accordion, hurdy-gurdy, pipe organ, baritone), luminescent microphone stands and suspended video screens. The group is taking its theatrical act on the road in support of their sophomore album Neon Bible.

Despite this elaborate assemblage, Arcade Fire suffered no lapses of focus or unity, and stayed true to their trademark driving rhythms and irresistible arrangements that had even cynics tapping their feet and pumping their fists. Win Butler led the group with a mesmerizing, preacher-like quality, while Richard Reed Parry bounded around stage, acting very much the neon to Win's bible.

The audience clearly loved the captivating performance, but restrained themselves from storming onto the stage like the overwhelmed fans did at Arcade’s uptown concert on Monday.

The first couple of the avante garde, Laurie Anderson and Lou Reed, slipped out of Radio City shortly after the fifth song, and handed their tickets to two stunned fans waiting outside the sold-out venue. The two then stepped into a Lincoln Town Car, and drove off. - Damien Neva

Photos: Damien Neva