The Idle Hands @ Sauce Soundbar

Last night I checked out the Idle Hands et al at Sauce (Lake and Lyndale for those who remain uninitiated) and, as I predicted, it was a great show. I was even able to get (and keep) my favorite spot at the end of the bar.

The first band was Usonia, who I had never heard of, but they were actually really good! My friend and I decided they were the best opener we've ever heard there (G Biz, anyone?) or, for that matter, anywhere else. Definitely above average, smart, and well put together music and lyrics - some of their songs were really catchy with great riffs and beats. Their sound was vaguely retro, with keyboards and clapping (which I loved of course), and the band members must all be very talented since they traded instruments throughout the set. According to Ross, the lead singer, their name "Usonia" is the term for Frank Lloyd Wright's vision of post-WWII America. I told you these guys were smart. Bottom line is: go see these guys play. Hopefully they'll have a lot of shows in the near future.

Next up was Arms Akimbo, who I saw open for the Alarmists at 7th St Entry, and as expected, they had a great set. I won't repeat myself too much, but if you like a solid performance with a hint of reggae/mod/doo-wop/early Beatles, go see these guys play. You won't regret it. If you do, don't blame me.

Next was Two Harbors. All I can say is "adequate" and "generic." Melody and rhythm which were pleasant and worked but unexciting and uninspiring. My friend dubbed them "Puddle of Bieber," which I think is actually a little harsh, but too funny not to include. I wouldn't avoid a show if they were on the list - unlike that monstrosity referred to as "Red Pens" - but I wouldn't seek them out either.

Finally, the Idle Hands were up last. As always, it was a 20 orgasm, A+++ show. I couldn't help but notice a couple changes in the band roster since the last time I saw them (Mears Park?) - different drummer and bassist - but they played a top-notch set. According to the lead singer Ciaran, their new album is coming out later this summer or fall in wide distribution (think Best Buy). I wish them tons of success, they definitely have the talent and deserve it. For now, I *highly* recommend picking up their last album, The Hearts We Broke On The Way To The Show, and then seeing them play ASAP. Who knows - maybe in a year they'll be on an international tour and we'll all bemoan all the missed opportunities to see them here in the Twin Cities.

Evening Rig & Arms Akimbo @ 7th St Entry

Technically, the headliner at this show was The Alarmists, but I only heard the first 30 seconds of their first song, so I feel more qualified to speak to the quality of their openers. It is there that I shall begin.

Evening Rig was the first band on the bill. They played solid, fine-tuned Southern Rock. Meaning, they sounded a bit like Lynyrd Skynyrd or The Black Crowes. Or 10w40, but with less sleazy sex and more energy. Overall enjoyable bar music. It was when they ended their set with covers that their sound fell a little flat. Tom Petty they are not, but then again, who else can be?

Arms Akimbo was extremely fun to listen to! They reminded me of The English Beat meets Vampire Weekend - an English ska/mod mixture that rubbed me the right way. The Beatles cover they played fit right into their bouncy music, and the singing bassist was impressive. In fact, their entire set was fun and energetic. I wonder if it's a sign of the times that silly, light-headed music like this is so popular. I don't really care either way - I love it!! And was the kid in the England sweatshirt hilarious? Yes. Did I make fun of him? Of course. And the tall girl too. My judgmental gaze passes over no one.

To end my review: the Alarmists were acceptable.

P.S. I'd like to give a shout out to Brian Diamond, aka the best Rainbow cab driver ever. He killed none of us, including me for calling him a drug addict, and gave us jazz hands. This post is dedicated to you.