Band Love

The Bard Chronicles: Nico Vega and Crash Kings at The Griffin 7/11/13

Posted on by Amanda

The last time I saw Nico Vega in San Diego was at the Casbah to a relatively rowdy crowd but it was by no means a sold out show. They did tour through here with Imagine Dragons playing the SDSU Open Air Theater but I didn’t attend that show.

Crash Kings have playing down at Griffin off and on during the year and I’ve noticed two separate shows there that I was unable to attend. Sad Amanda. Even sadder because I hadn’t seen them play in well over a year.

So what happens when you take two popular LA bands who are friends that even share a rehearsal space and you put them on the road together? In a word, amazingness.

Watching Crash Kings play for the first time in over a year was like no time had passed. Despite having a different drummer, their set was filled with the same enthusiasm as the first time I saw them years ago. And I had honestly forgotten how much that clavinet will rock a room. It was so refreshing to see a band rock out with a piano, keys, and a clavinet. I didn’t even miss the guitar.

It was fantastic to see them rock old favorite like “Mountain Man”, “It’s Only Wednesday,” and “14 Arms.”   Their set was a nice blend of old and new tunes and I have to tell you, those new tunes are awesome. Their set was so awesome, it inspired an encore because the crowd just wouldn’t stop yelling for them. You should really do yourself a favor and go pick up Dark of the Daylight  now.

Nico Vega is an amazing band. And you can tell they are fully on their A Game after having toured all over with Imagine Dragons earlier this year. They are tighter than I’ve ever seen them and somehow even more dynamic than before. Maybe it’s the drums. The tiny stage was hardly big enough to contain them as evidenced by only one painted barrel on stage and Aja’s continual departure from the stage.

At one point during the set, someone yelled for them to play “Wooden Dolls” and the band all sat down on the stage and quietly played the song. I should also mention that one of the barrels was dedicated to an audience member’s deceased pet turtle and Aja informed the crowd that she would be taking it home with her after the show. How sweet! What was even sweeter was seeing other old favorites like “Gravity” and “Beast” mixed in with all the snazzy new tunes from their forthcoming album Lead to Light . If you love Nico Vega or just want some cool stuff from them (their designs are rad) then you should pledge your support here. I’m personally getting a shirt and the font that is Rich’s handwriting.

 

Check out more pics in the gallery below!

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Top 7 Reasons I’m Glad Crash Kings Are Back

Posted on by Kristen

When Crash Kings released their self-titled album back in 2009, they quickly became one of my favorite LA bands. Their unique sound and set-up made them stand out and catchy singles like “Mountain Man” and “You Got Me” helped propel them to mainstream success and the band started touring across the country and making a name for themselves. Then, somehow, they started drifting off the radar. Now, it has been some time, but the band is
back with both a fantastic new album (Dark of the Daylight) and renewed sense of purpose. Crash Kings stormed through a rockin’ set Wednesday night at The Troubadour, introducing their new tunes and playing old favorites to a delighted audience. Seeing the band again reminded me of how much I love them and their music, and I came up with a list of Top 7 Reasons I’m Glad Crash Kings Are Back…

1.
The Clavinet

Who needs a guitar (Crash Kings don’t have one) when you have this key-based
instrument? One of the hallmarks of a Crash Kings tune, the clavinet allows the band to take that guitar sound to a new level and it’s not something I’ve seen anyone else attempt. For this new album and tour, singer Tony Beliveau has expanded the number of keys onstage, surrounding himself by a piano, a clavinet, a standard keyboard, and another “noise” board that also seems to be run by keys.  The Clavinet, however, will always be the one to mesmerize and draw whispers from the crowd.

2.
I have a new CD
for my car

Some fans
might be surprised by what they hear from Dark of Daylight as it’s a slight departure from the band’s debut. The new songs rock a little harder and have a bit more texture, bringing in new, more synthetic sounds and more complex production. However, at the end of the day, Crash Kings are a rock band and in the show, the transition between old and new
tunes is seamless. The first single off the album, “Hot Fire”, is an instant classic, elevating the audience to maximum levels of enthusiasm.  My other new favorite, “Open Door” is a
sway-inducing piano heavy sing-along. The whole album is one that can be listened to on repeat, each song offering something exciting and unique. Seriously, it’s about time I found a new car-worthy CD!

3.       Mike Beliveau renews faith in the bass guitar

Crash Kings bassist, Mike Beliveau, is a remarkable example of how a bass can really be used to augment a song beyond the standard, keeping a back line. This guy makes bass-solos exciting! Last night, he took out a slide and used it on his instrument to get this sound that made me feel like there was a violin (or maybe cello) in the room. Plus, with singer Tony in a bit of a keyboard cage, Mike is left to fill the stage and he does, proving that a bassist doesn’t have to be relegated to a corner bobbing their heads.

4.        More Piano Rock!

Piano rock might be my favorite of all genres. There is not enough exciting, solid rock music coming out these days, let along compelling tunes from this sub-genre. Crash Kings are masters at infusing my favorite instrument into a solid rock song. It’s the kind of music that makes the heart swell AND the head bob.

5.
“Old new” music finally
recorded

There are a
couple songs on the album that I’ve heard before but have basically forgotten because they were never recorded and released. The band started playing “All Along” and I nearly squealed with the pleasure of re-visiting this song I hadn’t heard in years. That part of the song when the instruments pause and Tony’s voice breaks into the chorus…well, I’d forgotten what a breath-taking moment that was. I also had faint memories of a song that ended up being called “White Wolf” that is the perfect combination of beauty and drama and will just take you places.

6.
“14 Arms” live

As a huge
fan of Crash Kings’ first album, it is an extreme pleasure to hear these songs once again performed on the stage. At The Troubadour we got the hit singles as well as songs like “1985” “It’s Only Wednesday” (fitting for the day), “Saving Grace” and “14 Arms” which happens to be the first Crash Kings song I ever heard and hence my “gateway” into Crash Kings fandom.

7.
Crash Kings fans
are amazing people

I was
surprised by the number of people I knew who came out for the show. Talking with one of my friends, she said something about their being a number of awesome people she’s met because of Crash Kings. Looking around the room during the show, I couldn’t have imagined a better crowd; enthusiastic w/o being pushy, friendly w/o being drunk, and the kind of people who simply love good music. If you make it out to a Crash Kings show, do yourself a favor and introduce yourself to the people standing next to you. Instant friend.

Speaking of the tour, here are the dates. Be sure to get our early or stay late for the equally awesome Nico Vega!

July 11 — San Diego, Calif. — The Griffin

July 12 — LasVegas, Nev. — Hard Rock Café – Vegas Strip

July 13 — Salt Lake City, Utah — Bar Deluxe

July 14 — Denver, Col. — Bluebird Theater

July 16 — Kansas City, Ks. — Riot Room

July 18 — Dallas, Texas — The Door

July 19 — Austin, Texas — Stubb’s Jr.

July 20 — Houston, Texas — The Studio @ Warehouse Live

July 22 — Orlando, Fla. — The Social

July 23 — Jacksonville, Fla. — Jack Rabbits

July 25 — Atlanta, Ga. — Vinyl

July 26 — Columbia, S.C. — New Brookland Tavern

July 28 — Baltimore, Md. — Ram’s Head Live

July 31 — New York, N.Y. — Bowery Ballroom

Aug. 1 — West Chester, Penn. — The Note

Aug. 2 — Columbus, Ohio — The Basement

Aug. 5 — Nashville, TN — Exit/In

Aug. 6 — St. Louis, Mo. — Old Rock House

Aug. 8 — Chicago, Ill. — Abbey Pub

Aug. 10 —Cleveland, Ohio — Wendy Park

Aug. 11 — Pittsburgh, Penn. — Altar Bar

Aug. 13 — Syracuse, N.Y. — Westcott Theatre

Aug. 14 — Poughkeepsie, N.Y. — The Loft

Aug 16 — Cambridge, MA — The Sinclair

~ Kristen

 

The Bard Chronicles: Semi Precious Weapons at The Belly Up 6/6/13

Posted on by Amanda

Semi Precious Weapons is a band that admittedly, I just didn’t “get” at first. Maybe it’s because I went to their On the Rox shows where half naked women were running around or being Saran wrapped to a pole. It just didn’t make any sense to me. Then I saw them at SXSW last year and it finally clicked and I fell in love. They have been back in the studio ever since with nary a show with the exception of heir residency at Sayers Club. I caught their one show at SXSW this year and my life has been devoid of Semi Precious Weapons ever since. That is, until they came down to San Diego as part of Sunset Sessions Rock. How thrilled was I to be seeing them down here and at a venue with great sound and no *ahem* clothing requirements/restrictions.

Generally speaking, The Belly Up is not a place I would expect to find Semi Precious Weapons playing a gig. That surely didn’t stop them from making themselves right at home and taking the place hostage. They played all new tunes such as Cities, Cherries on Ice, Wish I Had A Drink, and Aviation High to name a few. Their sinfully exciting glam-rock show is something that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime and it’s something I hope to repeat very soon.

Click the link below for a video of WIsh I Had A Drink  at the Belly Up or check out their video for Aviation HIgh directed and editing by their own Stevy Pine.

Semi Precious Weapons- Wish I Had A Drink

New Music Tuesday 5/21/13 featuring 30 Seconds to Mars, Willy Moon, New Politics

Posted on by Amanda

Since Kristen is a bit indisposed this week, I’m filling in for her weekly New Music Tuesday post. This is also why it’s a few days late. While I haven’t had time to sample everything listed below, I can tell you that we are in the prime time for some awesome new music. Sample and enjoy!

30 Seconds to Mars– Love Lust Faith + Dreams

I bought this on pre-order because I have a bit of a soft spot for this band. From rather humble beginnings they have amassed a huge following. What I like even more is their ever evolving sound. Below is the music video for their single Up In The Air.

Willy Moon– Here’s Willy Moon

I remember Willy Moon from his catchy Apple ad and his crazy dance moves and awesome energy during SXSW. His debut album has finally been released in the states! If you’re up for a blended drink of old and new, check this out.

New Politics – A Bad Girl in Harlem

I’m not super familiar with this band but their single Harlem makes me dance in my car and that’s all I really care about sometimes. Their video is here and if you hop on their site, you can listen to the whole album. Try before you buy!

Also:

  • Emma Louise- vs. Head vs. Heart
  • The National – Trouble Will Find Me
  • Airbourne – Black Dog Barking
  • Beth Hart and Joe Bonamassa – Seesaw
  • Winery Dogs – Winery Dogs
  • The Spring Standards – live album
  • JC Broooks and The Uptown Sound

New Band Love: Irontom

Posted on by Kristen

“I think tonight I’ll be head banging in my sleep” – friend after seeing Irontom for the first time

The quote is particularly relevant as it came from someone who’s last shows with me were Joshua Radin, Rachael Yamagata, and Ryan Cabrera.  Irontom is…well, not like that.

Yes, this band is full of young promising talent. Yes, the music is fresh and exciting. Yes, there are quite a few bands that could be described as such. What sets Irontom apart is the seductive energy that comes through every rockin’ guitar lick or dramatic flick of frontman Harry Hayes’ hands. There is something about the band that can make just about anyone feel the groove and start to dance. They are that band that the more you listen to, the more you crave.

I’ve seen the band twice in the last week, so my craving is pretty extreme. Fortunately, the band is playing again next week opening for The Parlotones: Monday (May 6th) in San Diego at The Griffin and Tuesday (May 7th) at The Roxy.

If you can’t make it to Southern California, here are some other links to help you get more familiar with Irontom. Their The Loose EP can be downloaded on iTunes and the band has a new EP coming out something this month. Friend, follow, etc the band to get the details!

website

facebook

twitter

tumblr

 

~ Kristen

 

The Bard Chronicles: Dear Boy Redux @ The Bootleg Theater- 4/25/2013

Posted on by Amanda

Sometimes you just have to travel to see a band play. Thus began another trip up to LA to catch the second ever Dear Boy show. Call me a sucker but the opportunity to see a band from the very beginning is something that I couldn’t pass up. After a lovely meal of ramen (one my my favorite things to get in LA) it was time to head to the show. I have to say, The Bootleg has gotten a bit swanky since I was last there. With wonderful couches for lounging on and a ping pong table to play with (which we took full advantage of), it wasn’t difficult to wait around for the show to get started.

Shortly after 10pm, Dear Boy took the stage for the second time in their musical career. All sharply dressed in black (except the bass player who opted for black and white), the gents of Dear Boy gave off an air of intrigue and mystery. The charismatic frontman from ex Scarlet Grey was unusually serious and tight lipped as only a few words were given between songs such as thanks to the other bands and the venue. The set itself gave off a sense of controlled chaos and release with a fury of distorted guitar and fast paced drumming to accompany Ben’s vocals. Audience dancing could not be helped as Dear Boy continued on and started to let loose themselves, which further fueled said dancers. The set ended on a high note after the last two songs in the set Sister Golden Hair (an excellent cover) and Funeral Waves took it “up another notch,” as Emeril Lagasse would say. Let’s not forget their single Come Along which fans have already memorized and singing along.

I only see good things for the future of this band. Be sure to catch them at their next show, June 6th supporting Meg Myers at The Troubadour.

The night was topped off with a set from LA rockers The Active Set who provided the perfect cap to the end of the evening. It was especially entertaining when frontman Matt Stolarz was having sound issues and stand in drummer Steve Coy came out from behind the drumset, still playing. The other members gathered around Steve and did a booty shake for our entertainment.

On a more personal note: It was wonderful to catch Ben Grey for some “Hellos” after their set. It was obvious he was thrilled to be there and the fan support was overwhelming I’m sure. I’d also like to say that he gives some of the best hugs. Ever.

 

The Bard Chronicles: William Beckett @ House of Blues Side Stage- 4/6/2013

Posted on by Amanda

Once upon a time in years long ago there lived a band called The Academy Is… who existed in harmony with other Fueled By Ramen bands such as Fall Out Boy, Panic! at the Disco, and Cobra Starship. Sadly, those are times of old and The Academy Is… has since broken up leaving frontman and lyricist William Beckett on his own.

After flying to Chicago to watch William Beckett play a holiday show two years ago, I was due for another William Beckett show. After having gone out to support Hellogoodbye and Relient K in July of last year, William finally made it back as a headlining artist this year on his What Will Be Tour and brought Jillette Johnson along for the ride.

I wasn’t aware that the House of Blues in San Diego had a side stage. I’d been to the one in LA but never the one in San Diego until I came to see William Beckett. I hung outside in the patio area while the opener played and I waited. The front of the tiny stage was already packed with fans staking their claim for when Mr. Beckett came to the stage. I actually caught William who had come outside to watch the show and said hello. I was super excited to see that he brought back the bandana in his outfit that night. If you ever watch old The Academy Is.. videos, you will know exactly what I’m talking about.

After the amazing Jillette Johnson finished her set, he took the stage. It was a great mix of new songs, old songs, and stories. William is an excellent storyteller and had the audience laughing after regaling us with a story from his youth in which he was the new kid who came to school fully dressed in his favorite athletic team’s sports apparel and was challenged to a basketball game by the resident school big shot. I’m sad to say the story ends with him losing after scoring a three point shot. However, it’s the wonderful blend of stories, humor, nerdyness, and songs that make him such a great entertainer. While I do miss him having a band and free to do his mic stand antics, I suppose this will do for now. As Kristen said of his show at The Hotel Cafe, he’s “the next Butch Walker” and I couldn’t agree more. No more compromises. What you see, is what you get.

Check out some of his tunes below!