On the night of April Fools’ Day at the Boulder Theater, New York-based alternative rock band Telescreens opened for the iconic post-punk revival band Franz Ferdinand.
Lead guitarist and vocalist Jackson Hamm, keyboardist/synth player Josiah Valerius, bassist/synth player Austin Brenner, and drummer Oliver Graf had a lot to live up to—and they delivered exactly what the audience needed.
From the first song to the last, Hamm created an energetic and inviting atmosphere. He encouraged the audience to sing and clap along, jumped into the crowd and led a rock-heavy set that thrilled every rock fan in the house. Their set featured songs like “Lost Ants” and “Lost”—tracks full of bittersweet emotion and nostalgia.
By the time they finished, the crowd was primed and ready for the headliner.
After a short intermission, the lights turned red and the crowd erupted as Franz Ferdinand’s members—Alex Kapranos, Bob Hardy, Julian Corrie, Dino Bardot and Audrey Tait—ran onstage. The audience’s excitement was palpable.
The band kicked oƯ their 20-song set with “Bar Lonely,” a track from their latest album, The Human Fear. Kapranos opened with a stunning 30-second guitar riƯ, enhanced by red lights and stage smoke, creating a surreal and unforgettable start.
Each of the next 13 songs carried its own flair. Whether it was Kapranos jumping into the crowd or dancing atop one of the drummer’s drums, Franz Ferdinand proved why their live shows are so highly regarded.
The most anticipated song of the night came at No. 14. As Kapranos began the signature riff of “Take Me Out,” the rest of the band joined him one by one. When the song launched into full force, the entire venue sang along in unison—a beautiful harmony of devoted fans.
The band closed their set with “This Fire,” their second-most popular song on Spotify. Many in the audience assumed the band might skip it, but drummer Audrey Tait began a rhythmic build-up while Kapranos introduced each member of the band, giving them a moment to shine. The final eight minutes were filled with electrifying riffs, pounding drums and unforgettable vocals.
After the band left the stage, the audience was buzzing—wanting more but fully satisfied.