Some bands just thrive in the club shows. These are the types of bands that bring out the thirstiest music fans.
The opener Deap Valley did not fail to impress. Lindsey Troy’s howling vocals and that all too familiar and comfortable sound of heavy distorted guitars. The style and confidence of this band was staggering. Impressing me further was that the drummer playing for this duo turned out to be a fill in for the actual drummer, Julie Edwards. A great start to an evening of exceptionally good bands.
I’ve seen Death From Above 1979 several times in outdoor settings up until now. I’ve been doing it wrong. This brings me comes back to my opening statement. This band was meant to be seen in a small club setting. Distorted waves from Jesse F. Keeler’s bass shook the room as they blistered through a career spanning set. It’s easy to get winded beating away at drums and singing at the same time. I really don’t know how Sebastian Grainger does it. It’s a balance game vocally. Grainger lowered his voice at time, probably to catch his breath during the faster paced songs, which are plentiful. He was more engaging than previous times I’ve seen them. He told stories of his visits to Cincinnati recalling browsing Mike’s Music up the street and finding himself lost in Kentucky after crossing a bridge. Was it perfect, no. But, it’s their loud chaotic sound and personality of the band that makes the show and open up the mosh pits. “Black History Month” though, such a great song.
Black Rebel Motorcycle Club were more business. They sounded so damn good. While dusting off songs as old as 15 years, they also showed off some new material. However, hearing deep cut tracks like “In Like A Rose” and “Cold Wind” brought me back to my days in high school driving around with my buddies just to cause mischief at football games. Peter Hayes, Robert Levon Been and Leah Shapiro cement BRMC as a headline act with a show that made Bogarts seem a lot bigger and fuller than it was. Like true showman, they saved the best for last. The three song onslaught of “Six Barrel Shotgun,” “Spread Your Love” and “Whatever Happened to My Rock n’ Roll” brought a tired crowd back to life. Always appreciate a strong finish. With a new album coming, I hope the band continues to make great music that I grew up on.
The same for all the bands that played this show. I don’t want Rock n’ Roll on life support. It needs more bands like these.
