Matters Arising

Been away from here for too long, pursuing the exertions of modern life. As far as music goes, I haven't done badly though. Took time out to see Feist (obviously), a show that would have achieved a certain level of greatness in a smaller venue. The acoustics at the Winspear wasn't quite right, and the sound seemed like that of a band still trying to get used to the sadjoys that fame can bring (e.g. a sit-down venue). Anyway, Calgary indie whiz kid Chad VanGaalen opened, and I very much enjoyed his set.

Saw Frog Eyes last night at the Velvet Underground. Second time for me - saw them open for Wolf Parade at the Starlite last year. I have to admit that the decision to see Carey Mercer scream himself hoarse is always a tough one, but that rhythm section is so tight, and since you don't get to hear the lyrics, it don't matter much. Besides, I couldn't resist checking out the live translation of Valedictorian. Turned out to be a very solid gig, with some new songs to boot. Highlight was "Reform the Countryside", but I still think the songs sound so much better on record, mainly because Mercer's vocals are reign in, and you can hear the intelligent metaphors. I did hear him say my favorite line: "You don't eulogize dirt plains." Of course you don't.

Edmonton synth punk upandcomers, All Purpose Voltage Heroes and Himalayan Bear opened. Second time for APVH, and the band's high energy act always impresses, especially when they manage to pull off a big sound with just keyboards and a percussion set. Let's not forget Dan's monster talent as lead vocals, and all that wriggling, dancing, banter, call and response, and general good-naturedness that should be a template for leads everywhere. At some point, he apologized to his Grandma and Mum (who came to see the show!) for saying fuck. Good stuff.

That's it for now. Till I find time to ramble here again, here some Pixies to hold the fort. This is from their first ever Australian gig on March 27, 2007- a rehearsal show in a small Melbourne pub called the Northcote Social Club.

Heaven
Wave of Mutilation (UK Surf)
Bone Machine
Here Comes Your Man
Monkey Gone to Heaven
U-Mass
Head On
Caribou
Subbacultcha
No. 13 Baby
Tame
Hey
Gouge Away
Mr. Grieves
Holiday
Wave of Mutilation
Planet of Sound
Debaser
Crackity Jones
Something Against You
Isla de Encanta
Nimrod's Son
Vamos
Where is My Mind?
La La Love You
Gigantic