The Kills perform at the Greek Theatre in Berkeley on Oct. 6, 2018. Photo: Chloe Catajan.

It is rare that I am ever in a camp of “bigger is better” when it comes to concerts, but sometimes, I really am. And sometimes, everything really is bigger and better in Las Vegas. That’s especially true when you see The Killers in their hometown. Here are my favorite concerts if the year, starting right at the top. (Hoe often is that the case? I’m not going to make you wait for the big payoff).

1. The Killers at MGM Grand Arena – Feb. 3.

Considering Albert Hammond Jr. of The Strokes opened the show, I had high expectations for the headliners. I got everything I wanted in spades from this band’s return home.

Lead singer Brandon Flowers started asking whether fans were having a good evening. Then he raised his voice and answered himself: “Fuck that. This is our town. We’re going to show you a good Saturday night.”

As Flowers began “The Man” off the band’s new album, Wonderful, Wonderful, pink confetti launched and soon covered the arena. A trio of female backing singers added to the disco-like chorus. Flowers worked the stage, undulating, hip-thrusting and feeding the crowd’s energy. Without missing a beat, the band went directly into “Somebody Told Me.”

The Killers created a giant spectacle. The sets featured everything from slot machines to lighted neon arrows. Screens behind and to the sides of the stage gave the show an immersive feel. Desert scenes, Mike Tyson and the “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign were all included, along with a dazzling light show.

Flowers didn’t miss a chance to break out the white glittery suit for the excellent cover of Elvis‘ “Viva Las Vegas.” Glitz and glitter abounded in this two-hour discography-spanning set. The encore did not disappoint either, as The Killers performed “Sam’s Town,” a single they hadn’t played in two years. “When You Were Young” and “Mr. Brightside” combined for a perfect finale. People were still singing those anthems as they walked back onto the Las Vegas Strip.

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2: David Byrne at City National Civic in San Jose – Aug. 18

Always one to push the creative envelope, David Byrne did not disappoint. Byrne took the stage donning a gray suit reminiscent of the one he wore during the “Stop Making Sense” tour. The backing band members entered one at a time, like a marching band, playing their instruments.

As Byrne performed “Here,” off his new album, American Utopia, he sang to a brain, in a silver-sequined stage. “Lazy,” lead by the band’s handclaps, showcased the barefoot troupe’s capacity for percussion ensembles and big guitars riffs. “Everybody’s Coming to My House” kept up the contagiously fun atmosphere with its singalong vibe.

From the opening chords of “This Must Be the Place” and “Burning Down the House,” the classic Talking Heads energy took full effect.

While Byrne has remained very vocal about his political leanings, it was never more evident than during the encore as the artists and opener, Ibeyi, came out to perform Janelle Monae’s “Hell You Talmbout,” a protest and tribute to all the lives lost at the hands of police brutality. The performers read several names, following them up with “Say His Name!” Byrne has been updating it for every show, so sadly there were some Bay Area references. The night’s excitement coincided with somber commentary, and no one strikes this balance better than David Byrne.

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3. LCD Soundsystem at The Greek, Berkeley – April 28

LCD Soundsystem had a lot to live up to when the band returned from retirement. James Murphy and co. reclaimed their unique presence by opening with “You Wanted A Hit.” For those who have followed and loved them for a longer time, it was great to hear a song from 2010’s This Is Happening.

Murphy’s vocals soared into the night and Nancy Whang mixed it up with a very excited crowd that wanted to dance. The band went into “Tribulations,” an older track. Gavin Russom’s synth blended perfectly with the pulsating drumming of Pat Mahoney. The band’s dance-punk sound was alive and better than ever.

Only a couple songs from the band’s latest album, American Dream, but that’s OK because the band didn’t skip “Daft Punk is Playing at My House.” The song triggered a dance pit with its infectious sound as the disco ball spun around and covered fans in light. The encore included fan favorite “Dance Yrself Clean.” As the vocals joined with the keyboard and cowbells in perfect harmony, it felt like home.

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4. Khruangbin at The Catalyst, Santa Cruz – Nov. 13

“Instrumental, bottom-heavy, psychedelic and sultry” might seem like an unlikely combination for a funk trio. But it works for Houston’s Khruangbin.

Guitarist Mark Speer got lost in the music, recalling Jimi Hendrix through his slick licks and smooth groove. Bassist Laura Lee hypnotized with simple but tasteful bass lines. Drummer Donald Johnson was a rhythmic powerhouse to complement the band’s danceable arrangements.

With the opening of “Bin Bin,” off The Universe Smiles Upon You, the band started with a punch. Speer’s unmistakable rhythmic guitar melted into evolving progressions. The band then played the surf-rock slow-burner “Infamous Bill,” and “Dern Kala,” a smooth jazz treat.

While most songs had no vocals, the seductive singing on “Evan Finds The Third Room” contrasted with a sample of a telephone ringing to make a catchy song that begged for undulations on the dance floor. The band really killed it on the hip-hop funk medley containing everything from Chris Isaak’s “Wicked Game” to Lauryn Hill, Sade and “The Next Episode Intro” by Dr. Dre.

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5. Interpol & The Kills at The Greek, Berkeley – Oct. 6

Interpol’s show was like coming home to an old friend. After missing the band’s 15-year anniversary Turn On the Bright Lights tour last year, seeing this concert was a treat. The band began with “Pioneer to the Falls,” featuring the beautiful guitar playing of Daniel Kessler and frontman Paul Banks. Banks’ haunting vocals soared over the gloomy post-punk rhythm.