Challenge New Pornography

Ninety-nine percent of the time, I'll do my research before a concert. I'll know the openers, I'll know which band members are on tour, and I'll know what to expect from the show. I just got home from the New Pornographers, one of the few shows which I hadn't researched at all. A little surprise, then, was that the whole band would be touring. Thus, Dan Bejar and Neko Case were there on stage. Neko hit a tambourine for almost the entire show, while Dan wandered around clutching beers and adding his own unique touches. Hearing him sing "Jackie, Dressed in Cobras," was an experience in itself.

While talking to Jace Lasek of The Besnard Lakes last Wednesday, he confirmed that while Bejar is an amazing artist, he hates performing and usually gets drunk before he goes on stage. Tonight was no exception. However, he adds to the Pornographers' show so much with his completely, dangerously unique voice, that it was a pleasure to see him on stage. Besides, he wasn't as drunk as when he came on his own in the summer as Destroyer. Watch for him to come back with Swan Lake later this year at the Jubilee here in Edmonton.

The Pornographers' latest CD was a little dissapointing to me. However, when performed live, songs such as "My Rights Versus Yours" (a personal favourite off Challengers), "All the Things that Go to Make Heaven and Earth" and especially "Myriad Harbour" where electrifying. Again, Bejar's presence in "Myriad Harbour" made the song. Neko Case also added depth to the show with her explosively powerful lyrics.

It was a treat to see the New Pornographers as there were supposed to be: touring all together. Too bad they didn't play "The Jessica Numbers."

Some tunes:

Myriad Harbour
The Jessica Numbers
Mutiny, I Promise You

Buy Challengers.