Jeff Mangum makes triumphant return to the stage

(photo by Aaron Richter, courtesy of Prefix)

Last night, those in attendance at the Olivia Tremor Control's Bowery Ballroom show in New York City were treated to a pleasant surprise.

Jeff Mangum, infamously reclusive frontman of Neutral Milk Hotel and founding OTC drummer, made his first onstage appearance in close to four years, performing with the band to rapturous applause from the crowd.

After lending vocals to "I Have Been Floated" and returning for more singing during the encore, Mangum playfully jumped around the stage, and—for a grand finale—was tackled by former Neutral Milk Hotel bandmate Julian Koster before disappearing just as easily as he'd emerged. The Olivia Tremor Control will play the Bowery Ballroom again tonight.

To read Paste contributing editor Jesse Jarnow's review of last night's show, click here.

Got news tips for Paste? Email news@pastemagazine.com.