The Psychedelic Furs formed in 1977. Their music was a blend of insightful lyrics, innovative rhythms, pop and rock propelled by the aggression of punk. The band enjoyed success in the 1980's with a number of hits including "Love My Way," "Pretty In Pink," "Heaven," "The Ghost In You" and "Heartbreak Beat". The Psychedelic Furs disbanded in the early 90's to pursue other projects. They reformed in 2000 to continue playing live, always with the possibility of a new record to add to the seven studio albums already in their canon. The current Psychedelic Furs touring lineup is Richard Butler (vocals), Tim Butler (bass), Rich Good (guitar), Mars Williams (saxophone & clarinet), Amanda Kramer (keyboards) and Paul Garisto (drums).

The Psychedelic Furs performed at the BergenPAC in Englewood, New Jersey on March 26, 2012. The stage set up was stark with mainly amps and instruments filling the space. The band appeared around 8:30 p.m. All six were clad in dark colors as they went full steam into "Into You Like a Train". The song was energizing and established the pace for the next hour and a half. "Alice's House" was animated with lead vocalist Richard Butler dancing, jumping and moving the whole length of the stage as he sang in his distinctive edgy range. "Pretty in Pink" was perky with fans on their feet enjoying the feisty instrumentation and a short and sassy sax solo.

"Only You and I" hit hard with thick tempos combined with a darker punk attitude. "Imitation of Christ" melded spirited sax parts with spacey keyboard effects. On this song, as with many in the band's set list the clarinet, keys and sax were mixed high so that you could pick up their accents. These instruments were not overpowered by the robust guitar riffs and rhythms that are also an important part of The Psychedelic Fur's signature sound.

The Psychedelic Furs played a concise concert making sure to satisfy their fans with all their major hits. The pairing of "The Ghost In You" and "Heaven" were crowd pleasers. Butler was not chatty. He was expressive in his movements gesturing with his hands and often bending down to sing to fans in the front rows. The rest of The Psychedelic Furs were also professional in their approach.

The Psychedelic Furs in Englewood - March 2012.

"Like A Stranger" was moody and melded a mix of different sounds amongst the clarinet and keys. "My Time" also had a subtle soundscape and a tick-tock beat. "Highwire Days" had the feel of a circus mixing new wave textures with complex tempos. "Love My Way" and "Heartbreak Beat" were energized and engaged the crowd.

The encore featured a roof raising "House", a peppy and pertinent "President Gas" and a feisty "Forever Now". The Psychedelic Furs delivered a solid show of familiar favorites that was fun for their fans of all ages.

The Psychedelic Furs are one of many popular acts that have performed at the BergenPAC. The venue's 2012 season is packed with an eclectic mix of comedy, music education and concerts. Scheduled to appear are The Moody Blues, Blue Oyster Cult, Squeeze with The English Beat, Dokken with Warrant, Boyz II Men, Glenn Fry, Paul Anka, Gladys Knight, Steve Miller Band, Ziggy Marley, Zappy Plays Zappa and many more. Please check the BergenPAC's calendar for a list of all of their events.

SETLIST: Into You Like a Train / Alice's House / Pretty in Pink / Only You and I / Imitation of Christ / It Goes On / The Ghost In You / Heaven / Like A Stranger / My Time / Highwire Days / Love My Way / Heartbreak Beat / Encore / House / President Gas / Forever Now

Related Links: For more information on THE PSYCHEDELIC FURS and the other organizations mentioned please visit the following links - The Psychedelic Furs | bergenPAC.org