Hooping

Random pics off the web can be fun, but for appreciating the subtle details of a particular style, nothing tops being with the genuine article in person.  On 11/7/09 March Fourth (M4) owned Reno’s face with flair.

The vibe was electric.  In addition to rocking a sold-out venue through two sets of marching-fueled mayhem, M4 brought it fashion-wise, dazzling us with the finest couture aspects of their signature style.

Hats, collars, sleeveless tail-coats, vests, bustles, and layered vaudville (one of the stilters was wearing five layers of clothing on his torso!), all well accented with miscellaneous militaria.  Anywhere there’s a gap in cohesiveness, throw in some punk-rock accessories or a bit of tribal flair.

Just about every article worn by the band is custom, some of it gifted by fashion designer fans from around the country.  Speaking to the band members is a crash course introduction to the underground burner couture network.

One thing that stands out about all M4s costumes is their individuality.  While you can tell there have been certain trends, all the costumes are highly individualized conceptions and the band welcomes all takes on its core theme.

Their merchandise table was a veritable smorgasbord of wicked accessories.  Belt buckles, chain-ring M4 necklaces, custom designed hats by Faith, and of course, the infamous logo’d shirts in 31 different flavors.

The vibe wouldn’t quite have been what it was were it not for the fans.  We brought it too, with circus and marching band inspired creations of our own.

As M4 proved that night: it’s one thing to rock, and another thing entirely to look good while doing it.  If you’re near Portland, M4 will be celebrating their homecoming and the release of their newest CD “Rise Up” on November 19th at the Wonder Ballroom. March On!

*Alert* We just received a hot tip about a marching band/outfit project happening in the vicinity of Gigsville!  Subscribe by clicking the links to the right if you want to be notified when this story breaks!