The Hives Prove Contagious at Irving Plaza in NYC [Exclusive Photos]

There’s no better way to end the weekend than by getting down with the Hives, and that’s exactly what New Yorkers did last night (March 24) at Irving Plaza, where the Swedish garage-rock heroes played a sold-out show with support from the Livids.

Taking the stage in characteristically dashing attire -- crisp white shirts, black slacks and sleek top hats -- the band gave East Coast fans a night to remember. The set came loaded with tracks from their latest record, ‘Lex Hives,’ including ‘Come On!’ ‘Take Back the Toys’ ‘1,000 Answers,' ‘I Want More,’ ‘Wait A Minute’ and ‘Midnight Shifter.’

At various points in the show, insanely charismatic Hives frontman Howlin' Pelle Almqvist got up close and personal with fans, leaping into the audience and climbing up high to serenade fans on the Irving Plaza balcony.

The Hives poured every bit of themselves into the performance, and their energy and catchy tunes had fans dancing, bouncing and singing along. On such notable tracks as ‘Hate to Say I Told You So,’ ‘Walk Idiot Walk,’ ‘No Pun Intended,’ ‘Main Offender’ and ‘Die, All Right!’ the venue seemed to shake, and they rounded out the night with an explosive performance of ‘Tick Tick Boom.’

The Brooklyn-based Livids gave a vigorous and entertaining performance of their own to start off the night. Enthusiastic vocalist Eric Davidson gave photographers friendly noogies and showed off some old-school punk hygiene by picking his nose and eating his findings, as well as by flossing his teeth with the microphone chord. He even pulled a lovely female concertgoer onstage to serenade, dance with and possibly frighten. Their set was swift, but like that of any good punk band, it left you wanting more.

Check Out Photos of The Hives and The Livids Performing in NYC:

The Hives:

The Livids: