Energy was the key component of illScarlett’s show at Norma Jean’s on Friday night, as they performed songs from their new album 1UP! and old hits with vigor.

Opening band Ubiquitous Synergy Seeker — also known as USS — captured the audience with their wild antics from the start. Vocalist, guitarist and erhu player Ashley Boo-Schultz stood with his sunglasses and guitar next to a table of knick knacks — featuring a blender and heart monitor — with the oddity forgotten the moment the music began.

With his raw and grunge-like voice, Boo-Schultz sang while Jason Parsons, also known as Human Kebab, performed tricks like headstands while continuing to scratch his vinyl. His energy resonated with the crowd while his unique scratching techniques had them laughing.

BREAKIN' A SWEAT. illScarlett worked up a sweat at Norma Jean’s on Friday night while playing and old favourites and new hits off their latest album 1UP! (Maggie Pajak/Gazette)

The venue was packed, and as soon as USS finished their set, the crowd grew tighter, teeming with anticipation. As soon as illScarlett took to the stage, the audience began to sway and a mosh pit erupted as the steady bass and two-step rhythm guitars played.

The ska-influenced rock music inspired the crowd with a need to dance, while they sang along to the band’s hit singles.

The headliners were entertaining even in between songs. The band members constantly interacted with one another, making faces and bumping into each other. Furthermore, bassist John Doherty and lead guitarist Will Marr interacted with the crowd by playing up close. Singer Alex Norman asked the crowd to sing along, and even called a girl on stage to commemorate her first concert.

If the laid back reggae tunes were not enough to please the crowd, covers of famous songs by Sublime, Bob Marley and even Ace of Base brought the crowd’s enthusiasm to a whole new level.

Ultimately, illScarlett created an ideal atmosphere for every individual by mixing up their set with ska-influenced rock, reggae, well known covers and their own hit singles.

In the end, the audience was so insistent that illScarlett came back for a three-song encore and invited the crowd to stick around after to party and donate to charity. The crowd barely dispersed after the show and the high energy kept everyone dancing late into the night.