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ivan@stellysee.de
| From | "Michael Bennett" <mrhonorama@hotmail.com> |
| Subject | Quick IPO blast |
| Date | Sun, 27 Apr 2003 15:26:19 -0500 |
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Unlike last year, I've been very selective about shows, with work and other
obligations making it hard to do much ChiPO.
My highlights so far --
A fun set from sparkle*jets UK and Steve and Liam of Frisbie previewing
their excellent pending release, period. (with a swell cover of 10CC's
"Things We Do for Love").
Tuesday -- Adventures of Jet -- they add just the right extra energy to what
they do on their records. Great set. Tom Dailey did a fine solo acoustic
set.
Friday -- Jonathan Scott of Doleful Lions. Achingly beautiful, utterly
captivating. His tales of serpents and knights and mythological figures are
well suited for his twee and evocative voice. Did a nice new song and ended
with two great songs from the last Doleful Lions disc.
Neilson Hubbard -- accompanied by a bassist/accordionist -- that one extra
musician made a difference, giving him a bit more texture. He did songs
from his last two albums. Can't wait to hear this year's release.
Dolly Varden -- These folks have their sort of alt-countryish sound
perfected. Outstanding live band.
Sat. --
Adam MacIntyre -- Nashville dude following in the power pop trail of The
Shazam. Good songs and vocals that have a touch of Paul Rodgers. Engaging
presence.
Van Go -- Very well-executed midwestern power pop. They just do everything
well.
IT'S MY PARTY!!! -- Fun, as always, but they are becoming Menudoesque --
three new girls and one holdover from last year. The new combo needs to
gel.
Crash Into June -- A bit more Modern Rock than Van Go, but also a band that
executes very well.
Had to get home, so I missed the Trouble Dolls, who I wanted to see.
Last night --
The singer from Sun Sawed in Half and Joe Giddings each put on really good
sets, though neither SS in 1/2 or JTG are totally up my alley. Strong
vocalists and engaging stage presence go a long way.
Chris von Sneidern and Terry Anderson are both guaranteed good times, in
their own ways.
King Radio brought a string section and got better as the set progressed,
ending with stirring version of The Bee Gees' "To Love Somebody".
Shoes -- Ugh. I know they haven't played live in ages, but that's not
enough of an excuse. Never more than competent vocalists, inactivity has
rendered them borderline unlistenable -- unless off-key and flat are your
cup of tea. They brought in about half of the crowd (a bit less than last
year's jam packed Elvis Bros./Shazam tilt), most of whom listened with their
hearts rather than their ears. Those who had heard of the legend were left
wondering what the hell Shoes adherents were talking about.
The Shazam -- they just keep getting better. They are a rock and roll
machine (and better than Triumph or The Godz...)
Mike Bennett
Record reviews and more at http://fufkin.com
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