August 24th began as a gloomy day in the New York metropolitan area, but the simple fact that the guys and gals from Ra Ra Riot were gracing Brooklyn with their presence was enough to brighten anyone’s day. After an in-store acoustic performance at Soundfix Records, the band headed about a block and a half up to Brooklyn Bowl to DJ, mingle, and celebrate their new record, The Orchard.

With The Orchard playing on the sound system for an hour before showtime, fans gathered and discussed the new tunes while anxiously awaiting Ra Ra Riot.  Milo Bonacci was the first and most prominent DJ of the evening. Eventually, lead singer Wes Miles made it out on stage as he was accompanied by Chris Baio and Rostam Batmanglij of Vampire Weekend. As the night went on, the disco beats slowly transformed into 90s throwback night, but that seemed to fit the joyous mood and terrific atmosphere that enveloped Brooklyn Bowl with the bands’ presence.

Check out photos from the record release party, read our review of Ra Ra Riot’s new album and catch them live in New York during one of their four shows on September 21-24 (though I’ve been assured by violinist Rebecca Zeller that September 22nd at Bowery Ballroom will be extra special).