CSS & Sleigh Bells @ First Ave

Hello loyal readers, I know it's been far too long since my last post. I promise to make up for it this summer by attending and reviewing as many shows as I can! Time and budget shall be my only limitations.

Anyhoo, I went to First Ave last night for the sold out CSS and Sleigh Bells show. I forgot it was all ages so my friend and I herded upstairs with the rest of the legal drinking age cattle. We got there in time to catch the end of the second opener, I believe called Neon Indian. It could have been Princeton though since I wasn't really paying attention.

CSS came on next, and totally blew me away. I already recognized a couple of their songs, but I fell in love with a few new ones. I thought the music was tight and well put together, the lyrics were straightforward, honest, and funny, and most importantly, their songs were super fun to dance to! The lead singer was an act all in her own right - she came onstage in boots, black pants, a red plaid shirt, and a black leather jacket, with a misfits-style face paint look going on. Super cool, right? Well it turned out the pants were tear-away, which were torn away to reveal jean shorts with a patterned pair of tights underneath. The jacket came off and the shirt beneath was longer than her jean shorts. Then, much to everyone's growing astonishment, she revealed not one but TWO other shirts underneath that one! She must have been sweltering in all those clothes. Plus, for the second to last song, she put on a pink flowery dress over her clothes and danced around with the zipper open and the dress falling off her arms. She even got down onto the floor with the crowd a couple times, and totally crowdsurfed. My friend called her "awesomely '90s" and I have to agree. They were absolutely amusing and kick ass. The drummer had his face painted too, and the keyboardguitarist was sporting a Sleigh Bells shirt. I love a female bassist so that was a nice touch. I honestly couldn't tell if the guitarist was a man or a woman - but s/he had kind of a fro-rat tail hair style going on, and was skinny but with toned arms. So bizarre but it totally fit! I love CSS. I can see why they're so tired of being sexy.

Then, after a prolonged break, Sleigh Bells came on stage to the opening strains of "Iron Man." Their stacks of speakers had a light show going on around them, and the fog was coming out hot and heavy from behind them. With the LOUD music (must've turned it up to 11), strobe lights, fog, heavy pot smoke, and light show, I was pissed that I didn't have any acid last night (joking of course). It would have been a whole different experience and to be frank, my senses were already close to overload with just some beer in me. To be honest, I wasn't impressed. They just danced around with backlighting for about 20 minutes and then they were done. The singer did some crowdsurfing too, which had totally already been done and seemed totally passe. CSS made it cool again when they joined SB on the stage at the very end of the show.

The lead mic needed to be higher because I couldn't understand a lot of what was being said or sung, and CSS totally should have been the headliners instead of Sleigh Bells. Those issues aside, it was a great show!

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.

The Big Pink @ First Ave

Yes, I realize it's been a while since I last posted on a show. What can I say? Winter beat me into some kind of lazy submission. But Spring has finally come, and brings with it concerts anew! So I went to First Avenue last night to check out The Big Pink, which I couldn't get into when they came to the Entry. Sidenote: Big ups to Emi for hooking us up so sweet!!

The opening band, A Place to Bury Strangers, came on with a fog machine and light show. Their music seemed like a mix of The Editors (vocals) and Black Rebel Motorcycle Club (music). Their music wasn't bad, but they had this irritating addiction to feedback, and used it to both begin and end every song. Literally - every song. Not necessary. Save me the noise cause I don't need it. The really strange thing about their show was that it was nearly impossible to see the band members performing, because they had an annoying light show going on, which precluded them from having any lights actually on them. I always thought the idea of going to see a band play was to, well, SEE THE BAND PLAY. Every once in a while we got a bright enough flash from their light show (kind of '80s now that I think about it) to see something on stage, and when that happened, I got to see how amazing their drummer was. His hands are crazy fast and that man knows how to rock a set of drums! He was definitely the highlight of the band. My friend described the light show and feedback squeals as the soundtrack to a "fucked up alien invasion" that could only mean "anal probes" were eminent. Yikes...

Now onto the Big Pink. I was so happy to see they were coming back after their last show sold out, and the singer gave Minneapolis some props for being a great city to come to. Naturally, as so many people in this town seem to have excellent taste in music (I am case in point of course). I'm not even sure how to describe the show, since for most of it I was having some kind of music-induced out of body experience. Of course, they saved "Dominos" for the last song, during which I think I actually reached a state of ecstasy. I transcended the physical reality of attending a show at First Ave and became one with the music. It was amazing. The surprise Smashing Pumpkins cover in the middle of the set was also a near-spiritual experience. If you get the chance to see this band, GO. Or at least check out their album, A Brief History of Love. As one major corporation would tell you, you're worth it.

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.

Turf Club 12/19

So a friend and I headed to the show at Turf Club last Saturday, mainly because I'm a freak for the Goondas and can't live without their music in my life. The lineup for this show was Hastings 3000, the Goondas, Red Pens, and First Communion After Party. I would like to point out that the Turf Club's own website contradicted itself on how much the cover charge was. One page said $5, another said $6. Whatever.

We got there partway into Hasting 3000's set, and we were both sad to have not been there for the entire thing. I learned that H3k is 1/2 of the Fuck Knights, and judging by how extremely good this guy was, I can only assume that the FK are totally awesome too. Yes, it was one guy on stage, playing guitar, playing drums (including tambourine), and singing. Talk about multi-talented!! His music was original and well-composed, with a hint of social awareness in the mix. I would definitely recommend seeing Hastings 3000 if you get the chance!

Next up, of course, were the Goondas. If you've read my original post on them when they played @ 501 Club, you already know how panty-wettening (is that a word?) their music is. When these guys make it big, I'll happily tell anyone who will listen how I was a prophet of their greatness. But I'd like to give a shout out to the drummer for a minute. He is so much fun to listen to and watch - the man knows how to beat some drums, and inevitably ends up only partially dressed. He could be at the front of the stage if you ask me. In case you still haven't gotten the message, GO SEE THE GOONDAS. THEY ARE AWESOME.

Following that act (which put them at a disadvantage right away) were the Red Pens. They are made up of a chick on drums and a dude playing a selection of guitars, one of which was brown. Here's the deal: I didn't like them. At all. The guitarist seemed like a Doug Martsch wannabe, except without the musical genius to back it up. The drummer knew about 2 beats and was incredibly boring. Plus, it totally sounded like they ripped off the Sex Pistols twice!! I know I heard the chorus from Anarchy in the U.K. during one of their songs, and was duly unimpressed. I got really pissed off when I realized that their new CD was listed in the City Pages as one of the best albums of 2009. What? Are you serious? Yes, City Pages, I'm calling you out on some bullshit. I can only hope that on their recording, they sound better and more original and more talented than they do live. I HIGHLY doubt it though. Don't spend any of your money on the Red Pens unless you're into aural masochism.

The sad thing about all of this is that we didn't stay for FCAP. Yes, the Red Pens drove us out before the headliners came on. The Red Pens should have opened for everyone else!! So that I would have missed them. Oh well. I still haven't seen FCAP so I'll save that review for another day.

Rockabilly Nite @ Club Underground

Before I begin my review of the music, I'd like to start with a couple general comments about the atmosphere. First, as soon as I descended into the room and approached the guy at the table to get my stamp, a wave of B.O. washed over me. I can only assume this was emanating from the young male contingency in the audience. The other observation that struck me was the fetishized 50's stylings of the people who I'm sure must be the "real fans." The clothing was updated with lots of leopard print and skulls & crossbones, so I was reminded that I was still in 2009.

Now onto the good stuff! The first band was Cool Hand, based out of Wausau, WI. I very much enjoyed their music - fun lyrics, solid performance, not a huge stage presence but very enjoyable. I would definitely see them again. The only thing that turned me off was the "stripper shoe" joke halfway through the set. But still worth my, or your, time.

Next up was Reckless Ones. These guys really had the crowd going, and I must say, they had quite a presence. They consisted of a guitarist/singer, a standup bassist, and a standup drummer. I love standup drummers. And I love standup bassists. The singer seemed to be channeling Robert Smith from The Cure underneath his suit and ascot, but I suppose you can't help who you look like. The crowd really got into their music, and there was all kinds of swing and other dancing going on at the stage. I very much enjoyed their music as well, although I was just bouncing along in the back of the room. It's hard to swing without a partner. Or any knowledge of swing dancing.

Finally, Hot Rod Hearse came on. I think a lot of the crowd was still out smoking when they started their set. Also a guitarist and standup bassist, but this drummer was sitting down. Anyway, they were also pretty rockin, and I felt bad that by the time they came on around 1 am, much of the crowd had either dispersed to elsewhere on the premises, or were too drunk to do much more than walk around being loud. But I would definitely check this band out again too.

So, final conclusion: I like rockabilly! It reminds me of Nashville, which brings up those feelings of deep love and longing. If only I didn't feel like a square for dressing like I usually do, i.e., like I live in this decade.

the goondas @ 501 Club

I decided at the last minute to check out the lineup at the 501 Club last night, and boy, am I glad I did. I left this show with a new favorite local band! (Sorry Idle Hands, no hard feelings, right?) But we'll get there eventually. Let's start at the beginning.

The first band was Guzzlemug. I think their entire set consisted of three very long songs - or maybe I just stopped paying attention. The first song, Dallas, TX, gave me the impression of excellent '70s jam-rock; the music flowed easily, and struck me as very Pink Floyd-esque. The second song, called The Moon, was similarly jam-band rock, but with a harder aesthetic. This was the point where they started to lose me; some of the song I liked, but then it wandered around the harmony and I couldn't keep up. Some could argue that it might have also been because at this point, I was on my second Premium. But who's counting? I think that my tastes are too vocally-driven to really appreciate their music - either they don't have a singer, or the singer didn't show up - but all in all, not bad. I would also like to point out that the incredibly hot drummer had his shirt off after the first song, and the guitarist had a super sweet 'stache. In my book, these are excellent signs.

The next band was Dylan Posa & Three Cheers for One Dead Man, from Chicago. Dylan Posa's website says "Dylan Posa is not ready for the 21st century," and frankly, I think the reverse is just as true. Or rather, there is simply no century ready for Dylan Posa. I didn't enjoy the music, the lyrics, or the singing. And was there some kind of off-key spoken word thrown in there? Or is that just how my brain interpreted the monstrosity of noise that was hitting my ears? I really enjoyed the commitment of the trombone player - she was working it pretty hard - but in my opinion, trombone does not for sweet rock music make. But then again, no one in the band was making good music, so it wouldn't be fair to single her out. A class of 3rd graders playing the recorder out of sync would have been a better booking.

10w40 followed, and although it wouldn't have taken much to sound better than the group before them, they were pretty darn good. I fell back into the let's-have-sex-in-the-back-of-my-van kinda vibe with the dirty, sexy, '70s rock music they were playing. They reminded me of ZZ Top or AC/DC, and they had some wicked lyrics comparing a woman to whiskey. At one point the phrase "rock my panties off" crossed my mind, and I think that sums up my experience of 10w40.

Now to the finale of the show - the goondas. I'm still coming down from the many orgasms this band gave me last night. I don't even know if I can express the heights of enjoyment that I reached as they played, but I'll try. Their music struck me as a cross between Nashville and Velvet Underground - does that even make sense? Maybe I should say that's how I felt while listening to them. They were fast-paced, had great guitar, amazing drums, expressive but simple lyrics, and were really really fun to watch! If I wasn't trying to take notes, I would have gotten up and danced like a happy fool for the entire set. As it was, I gave my chair a run for its money with all my booty shaking. However, the lead singer deserves an entirely separate review for his bizarre, intoxicated antics. What was up with the fuzzy lady coat he wore for about 10 seconds, before beginning to strip almost entirely naked? Did he briefly pass out in the corner while trying to pull off his mesh shirt? Was he merely drunk, or on some kind of opiate? Or perhaps a unique blend of drugs that he will never be able to replicate? Whatever the answers to these questions may be, he obviously isn't the most critical element in the band, as I still had my socks rocked off while he was busy doing whatever the hell it was he was doing.

Ultimately, the goondas put on an extremely fun show. Did drinking enhance the experience? Without a doubt! If I can see these guys play on a regular basis, I might not have to move to Nashville after all. They're playing this Friday the 27th at Sauce Soundbar, and there are more dates on their myspace page. I highly recommend checking them out!!