This year marks the 35th anniversary of the not-for-profit organization BRIC (who, since 1979, has carried on the mission to “advance access to and understanding of arts and media by presenting free and low-cost-programming…to people of all ages”). This weekend welcomed yet another in the organization’s Celebrate Brooklyn! initiative, hosting the indie pop duo Sylvan Esso in Prospect Park Bandshell (with openers Porches).

Before doors were even set to open for this free event, the line stretched around the base of the park (devoted fans continued to wait even after the venue had reached capacity, for their chance to see the North Carolinian duo). What can be said, even for those who weren’t able to make it inside the venue itself, is that Sylvan Esso’s tunes carried throughout the entirety of the park and caught the attention and imagination of passersby. Their melodies are methodical, and slightly sensual, and they create an atmosphere and a vibe that is entirely too catchy. It’s hard not to get caught in moments of swaying and exchanged smiles with strangers as Amelia Meath sings to Nick Sanborn’s complementary beats. While the band noted that the Bandshell was the largest venue they’d ever played, homage is due to BRIC for bringing such an incredible set of artists to the masses for public consumption. The only hope now for Sylvan Esso is that they continue to play to large crowds that are wholeheartedly appreciative of their raw and genuine talent.

Be sure to check Sylvan Esso out at sylvanesso.com and on iTunes, as well as BRIC as they continue to showcase a variety of programming around Brooklyn at bricartsmedia.org (for more information on Celebrate Brooklyn!).