THE FINAL COUNTDOWN.

THIS FRIDAY.

NEW YORK.
PAVEMENT.

for love, survival, and everything else.

Last night I had the experience of seeing The Drums and Surfer Blood at the 9:30 Club. The following is what ensued:
The Drums opened with"Best Friend," which had previously been my favorite of their tunes. "Submarine" and "Down by the Water" far surpassed that in my opinion. Jonathan Pierce was spastic, but lovable. The performance as a whole seemed almost like a scene from Glee rather than a live show. I loved the energy, but kind of prefer something less [seemingly] staged.
Then Surfer Blood quickly cemented their placement into my recent favorites. JP Pitts displayed impeccable vocals, with more variance of strength and tenderness than can be heard on a mixed album [all while sporting an American Flag vest]. "Twin Peaks" was a stand-out track. I also love the early 60's surf-rock retro vibe on "Catholic Pagans". It has maybe even a Frankie Valli or Beach Boys falsetto feel. The guitars were clean & smooth and everything seemed on point. All in all, it was a great night.

so when i'm with you i have fun.

Prior to seeing Best Coast live, I really wasn't sure what to expect. Bands with so much hype are usually a letdown, and while I like the album, I feel that the songs are all so similar and repetitive. But then I like reading about Snacks the cat, and about the band, etc etc. I procured a list spot to the sold-out event thanks to some friends and went in with a somewhat cynical mind. It took only a few songs to win me over. This show came together to be what many of us felt like an ode to summer, beaches, and barbecues. I can appreciate the simplicity of the three-piece group; each person has to be able to hold their own. I also liked that the focus was on the music rather than fashion or trying to be cool.

Bands often complain about the sound at Rock & Roll Hotel, and I usually think its fine. I only wish that last night the vocals could have had a bit more clarity rather than just sheer volume. Bethany Cosentino's voice was a welcome surprise from what I expected to be the forced cutesy vocals of an indie it-girl. I actually enjoy the live songs more than the versions recorded on the album. I hope that they continue to grow in terms of songwriting and aren't merely a passing fancy.

i see, see, see you 'bout every night.

A band with a New York sound and California style, Chief, captured my eye after my roommate pointed out that I would probably have a crush on the lead singer. I concurred after seeing Evan Koga and concluding that he looks like the spawn of Steve Aoki and Dave Grohl. That is beside the point though.

When I heard "Night And Day," with its haunting melodies and addictive hook, I had to have it immediately. Vocals are a major strength for the band in general. I also enjoy "My Love is Gone," which showcases their ability to vary the sound, but stay cohesive. The former is found on Modern Rituals (2010). Rolling Stone said "On their debut, this shaggy quartet conjure classic West Coast folk rock like they were baptized by David Crosby and reared by the members of Love." Agreed.



Acoustic Version