Ra Ra Riot played South Street Seaport

Following a brief break after the untimely death of 23-year-old drummer John Pike, Ra Ra Riot hoisted their spirits up for an outdoor summer show at South Street Seaport. Sam Champion played before them, as did the one-man Bikini Carwash Company, who generally sounded unimpressive but was enthusiastically joined by members of Ra Ra Riot for a goofy, sleep-over song. Everyone played short sets, and Ra Ra Riot’s swelled with sincere energy they’ve come to be known for (on their myspace they posted a message saying they’d been jogging and playing in the pool to counter some “band fluffiness”). They unveiled some new songs, and though there was no other mention of John, they introduced “St. Peter’s Day Festival” by saying, “This song was written by our dear friend John Pike.” Unlike John’s heartwarming solo version online, this one was given a full band treatment. Both versions are some of Ra Ra Riot’s best (it’s a great tune!). Check out the schedule for more free shows at Pier 17 this summer.

More after the jump.

Sam Champion