Mac DeMarco. Guitar, etc.

Mac DeMarco triumphantly returned to Seattle supporting his latest album, Guitar, which was released back in August. A stripped-back and raw album filled with DeMarco‘s high vocal melodies and chill beats. Mac has shown in the past that he’s willing to experiment with synth and indie sounds in a way that brought about his iconic sounds from songs like “Heart to Heart,” “For the First Time,” and “Chamber of Reflection.” This go around, however, DeMarco proves he doesn’t need fancy equipment and sounds to make a beautifully produced album, but rather, he just needs himself, a guitar, etc.

Mock Media was the opener for Mac’s tour and are also a part of his record label. Mock Media blends the early sounds of rock from the ’60s and ’70s into a modern, funky, and upbeat revival of classic rock that got the crowd up and moving on their feet from the beginning. Feeling more of a contrast with Mac’s music, Mock Media gave the audience something to get excited for with each new song before the main event. A highlight from their set was their tune “Louis won’t break,” from their last album, Mock Media II.

DeMarco strutted on stage with gleeful steps as he observed the audience of the sold-out Paramount Theater. Mac immediately opened the set with his first song from Guitar, “Shining.” Mac hadn’t been to Seattle since 2019, and he made light of this in his banter, titling many of his songs as “Space Needle” before playing his classics.

Mac has been known to be a character when on stage. When he’s not singing, Mac enjoys activities such as swaying to the beat, doing handstands, kissing his guitarist, Pedro Martins, and… humping the ground. During the set, Mac surprised the audience by saying, “This is a Steve Lacy cover.” Until he pulled a 180 and played arguably one of his most iconic songs, “Freaking Out the Neighborhood.”

All in all, Mac DeMarco has cemented himself over the years as one of the most successful, iconic, and influential indie forces of the 20th century. He rocked the Paramount with a lighthearted air, yet everyone listened with intent. Mac continues his sold-out tour until July 2026, ending in Barcelona.