Public Service Broadcasting Soars in LA with Big Special Debut
London’s own Public Service Broadcasting brought their meticulously crafted sound and visuals back to The Regent Theater in Los Angeles last week, marking a highly anticipated return that truly delivered. This show felt particularly special, considering the band had not toured the US since their extensive run in 2017, a run we remember well from seeing them as headliners at our local Soda Bar on September 26th of that year.
The night ignited with an explosive US debut courtesy of special guests Big Special. We crave witnessing UK bands cross the Atlantic for their America debut, and this Birmingham duo arrived ready to dominate. They delivered a sound that was immediately exciting and raw, seizing control of the room instantly. They unapologetically unleashed pure, kinetic soft punk energy; the sheer joy they took in their performance proved utterly infectious. It became clear why Public Service Broadcasting enlisted them for this tour. Big Special smashed expectations and set a fierce, unforgettable tone for the entire night.
Public Service Broadcasting always offers a unique live experience, consistently dressing like proper news broadcasters and building their music around samples from public service announcements, often themed to their latest work. This time, the band showcased their newest album, The Last Flight, an ode to aviator Amelia Earhart. Their set began beautifully, immediately immersing the audience with powerful images of Earhart displayed on the screen behind them. The band’s precision in their visuals, their samples, and their music making creates an absolutely incredible set every time. They weave together instrumental rock with historic audio clips, crafting a narrative that completely captivates the audience.
Beyond the new material, the trio played fan favorites, sending the energy soaring with greatest hits like “I Believe in Progress,” “Sputnik,” and “Spitfire.” Each song was a testament to their unique method of turning archive footage into dynamic, emotive music, and a few times during the show, a live camera simultaneously transmitted a real-time feed of the band members onto the visuals. We were truly honored to have been part of this show. Public Service Broadcasting put on a magnificent performance, and we absolutely hope to see them fly back across the pond again soon.
We were truly honored to have been part of this show. Public Service Broadcasting put on a magnificent performance, and we absolutely hope to see them fly back across the pond again soon.
