The meteoric rise of Alt-J continues at Fox Theater Oakland

Photos by Sam Heller // Written by Mike Frash

In just under nine months, quirky Brit-rockers alt-J have graduated from a double header at Bottom of the Hill to a two-night run at Fox Theatre Oakland — an impressive feat for any new band still touring on their first album.

The group’s meteoric rise can be attributed to their highly regarded 2012 record An Awesome Wave. Alt-J exhibit unique vocal syncopation, treating lyrics with off-beat rhythmic timing while also blending out-of-the-mouth sounds like a pleasant synth chord. Throw this in with some breathtaking bass drops and a drummer that performs cymbal-less, and you’ve got an exciting, breakthrough act.

In their third return to the Bay Area August 29 at a sold out Fox Theatre, the quartet seemed more comfortable than prior shows — and they delivered the proper, dreary set one would expect. Songs were played straight forward, but alt-J barely performed for an hour. Their live show should expand with additional material.