bring on the major leagues.

Last Friday night I traveled up to New York in anticipation of finally seeing [one of my all-time favorites] Pavement perform live. I had purchased the tickets almost exactly a year in advance, so I was a pent-up ball of emotions and expectation. I avoided reading about their other Central Park shows, though I did familiarize myself with the set-lists. I got in line at 5:30 PM and grabbed myself a seat...then all I could do was wait.

The Beets opened. I didn't care for them and almost wondered how they gained the coveted spot. They put in a good effort though, and tided us over until Pavement took the stage at 9PM.
I was in awe, it seemed unreal that they were right in front of me. Malkmus presided over his group and Bob Nastanovich provided comedic relief, as per usual. It was great just to see them together again and feel nostalgic. Malkmus's gravelly vocals and guitar antics took me right back to the 90's. It was a marathon set, and they played a little bit of everything. My long list of favorites includes "Elevate Me Later," "Summer Babe," "Frontwards," "Shady Lane," and "Perfume-V". I can only wish they had played my all-time favorite "Texas Never Whispers" and/or Terror Twilight sleeper hit "Major Leagues".

I am glad that I made the trek to NY rather than seeing them at Virgin Freefest the next day. Though there was less intimacy than I would have liked, the show was phenomenal and I couldn't have asked for anything more.

Full setlist here.

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

it's good to be back.

"i remember when our voices used to sound the exact same".

"so wait up/ you never get nervous anymore".

you say you think we are the best thing.

Miss Reading from Jonathan Luna on Vimeo.

Last week I shot some photos and video with Jonathan Luna. He then put it to the music of The XX. I think it turned out pretty well.