MTV Makes Me Want To Smoke Crack

Plants and Animals

2012-01-12T23:08:00.000-08:00

Schubas - Chicago, IL

Wow, what a great way to start off 2012 concerts. Plants and Animals switched up their set from the last time they were in town and busted out some new tunes from their forthcoming album. On first listen the new tunes sounded pretty good, we'll see how they continue to grow on me. The sound at Schubas was superb and the addition of the bass was unexpected and a welcome surprise to their already full sound. Full setlist to come when available but from what I remember they played (not in order):

Swinging Bells
Undone Melody
Game Shows
The Mama Papa
Bye Bye Bye
Good Friend
Faeirie Dance
New Kind of Love
plus 3-4 new songs

Top Ten of 2011

2011-12-24T13:43:00.000-08:00

1) kurt vile - smoke ring for my halo

2) the horrors - skying

3) black keys - el camino

4) my morning jacket - circuital

5) radiohead - king of limbs

6) wilco - the whole love

7) soft speaker - i'll tend your garden

8) ty segall - goodbye bread

9) girls - father, son, holy ghost

10) okkervil river - i am very far

Wilco

2011-12-12T23:12:00.000-08:00

Lyric Opera House - Chicago, IL

A set with most of Yankee Hotel Foxtrot, yes please, thank you
Epic

One Sunday Morning (Song for Jane Smiley's Boyfriend)
Poor Places
Art of Almost
I Might
Misunderstood
I Am Trying to Break Your Heart
One Wing
Rising Red Lung
Impossible Germany
Far, Far Away
What Light
Born Alone
Jesus, Etc.
Capitol City
War on War
Box Full of Letters
Pot Kettle Black
Dawned on Me
A Shot in the Arm
Encore:
Whole Love
Heavy Metal Drummer
Candyfloss
I’m the Man Who Loves You
Outtasite (Outta Mind)
Cruel to Be Kind (with Nick Lowe)
You’re Not Alone (with Mavis Staples)
The Weight (with Staples and Lowe)

Ryan Adams

2011-12-11T22:00:00.001-08:00

Cadillac Palace - Chicago, IL

Oh My Sweet Carolina
Ashes & Fire
If I Am a Stranger
Dirty Rain
My Winding Wheel
My Blue Manhattan
Carolina Rain
Everybody Knows
Invisible Riverside
Firecracker
SYLVIA PLATH
Let It Ride
Dear Chicago
Chains of Love
16 Days
Lucky Now
Two
New York, New York
Crossed Out Name
Please Do Not Let Me Go
"Lady with the Phone Song"
Round and Round (Ratt cover)
"Thank you for coming song"
Come Pick Me Up
Nutshell

Soft Speaker

2011-11-20T17:30:00.001-08:00

The Features

2011-11-15T23:48:00.000-08:00

Schubas - Chicago, IL

A A Bondy

2011-11-09T08:55:00.000-08:00

CAVE

2011-10-15T23:57:00.001-07:00

Northpilot

2011-10-07T23:40:00.000-07:00

Subterranean - Chicago, IL

Great show, especially the new singles. The crowd was pretty good as well, as they seemed to appreciate the many moments of greatness throughout the too short 45 minute set

Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks

2011-10-06T23:59:00.000-07:00

The Metro - Chicago, IL

Rock(!), highlighted by pretty much the entire new album, Mirror Traffic. They also threw in a few covers, but coulda used a few more "classics"

All Over Gently
Brain Gallop
Spazz
Discretion Grove
New song?
Long Hard Book
Tigers
No One Is (As I Are Be)
Stick Figures In Love
Church On White
Scattergories?
Baby C’mon
Senator
Real Emotional Trash

Forever 28
Share The Red
Brandy (You’re A Fine Girl) (Looking Glass cover)
Bennie And The Jets (Elton John cover)

Marnie Stern / No Joy

2011-09-24T23:44:00.000-07:00

Subterranean - Chicago, IL

view full image

Loud, very very loud

Okkervil River

2011-09-22T20:29:00.001-07:00

The Vic - Chicago, IL

view full image

Wake and Be Fine
For Real
Rider
Black
Your Past Life as a Blast
Song of Our So-Called Friend
Piratess
John Allyn Smith Sails
We Need a Myth
No Key, No Plan (Acoustic)
The Valley
So Come Back, I Am Waiting
Westfall
Our Life is Not a Movie or Maybe
Lost Coastlines
Unless It's Kicks

Soft Speaker

2011-09-09T23:46:00.001-07:00

The Deliverables

2011-08-27T12:23:00.001-07:00

Headshadow

2011-08-27T09:22:00.000-07:00

The Red Verse

2011-08-22T20:53:00.001-07:00

Reggie Watts

2011-08-22T20:52:00.001-07:00

DFA 1979

2011-08-05T06:02:00.001-07:00

Soft Speaker

2011-07-31T13:46:00.001-07:00

Milwaukee Ave Arts Festival - Chicago, IL

Another strong set from my local favorites. This one featured a couple brand new songs that I hadn't heard before that were quite good. The show also featured Revolution Brewing Company beer on tap, so that didn't hurt.

Setlist:
Geronimo's Last Defense
Jeju Island
Lion's Hide
For A Handsome Price
Cable and Lace
Expressions for Men
Showdown Charade
Pagan Pastimes

Chris Robinson Brotherhood

2011-07-29T05:42:00.001-07:00

Lincoln Hall - Chicago, IL

Holy moly, what a small venue for such an amazing band. Chris Robinson's voice was perfection, and the addition of Neal Casal to an already great lineup was just icing on the cake. The second set was on fire...

Someday Past The Sunset
Tumbleweed In Eden
Poor Elijah - Tribute To Johnson (Medley)
Star Or Stone
Tough Mama
Beware
Tomorrow Blues
Rosalee

40 Days
Tulsa Yesterday
They Love Each Other
Vibration & Light Suite
Ride
I Ain't Hiding
Driving Wheel
Sunday Sound

-Encore-
Blue Suede Shoes
Last Place That Love Lives

Cass McCombs

2011-07-26T22:50:00.000-07:00

Wish he would've taken advantage of his band a little more...and maybe one or two songs off Catacombs. Lower Dens however, pretty pretty pretty good

Moonface

2011-07-17T00:54:00.000-07:00

Lincoln Hall - Chicago, IL

XYLOPHONE dude rocked it. Of course Spencer was amazing per usual, but his sidekick really made the show complete.

My Morning Jacket

2011-06-17T23:51:00.000-07:00

My Morning Jacket - Auditorium Theater - Chicago, IL

1. Victory Dance
2. Circuital
3. The Day Is Coming
4. Touch Me I’m Going To Scream Pt.2
5. Off The Record
6. Wordless Chorus
7. First Light
8. You Wanna Freak Out
9. Wonderful (The Way I Feel)
10. Golden
11. Gideon
12. I’m Amazed
13. Where To Begin
14. Anytime
15. Dancefloors
16. Slow Slow Tune
17. Movin Away
18. Honest Man
19. Holdin On To Black Metal
20. Highly Suspicious
21. One Big Holiday
----------
22. Steam Engine
23. Smokin From Shootin
24. (end of) Run Thru
25. Mahgeetah

CAVE

2011-05-05T22:49:00.000-07:00

CAVE @ Empty Bottle > Tortoise @ Empty Bottle

Soft Speaker

2011-04-29T23:04:00.001-07:00

Once Again, rock

Soft Speaker

2011-04-02T08:13:00.001-07:00

Another rockin show complete with a dance party and a couple celeb sightings

Soft Speaker

2011-02-12T08:52:00.000-08:00

Beat Kitchen - Chicago, IL

These guys just get better with every show I seem to see. And the new songs just keep churning out. Even though I hadn't heard many of these songs before I still found myself really enjoying them (usually I have to hear a song a few times before it sinks in). Beat Kitchen's sound system was impressive as well for such a small venue, and Soft Speaker took full advantage jamming out many times through their set. Looking forward to the release of the new album as Three Beggars is already a standout to me live...

Setlist:

Jeju Island
Geronimo's Only Defense
Ask the Guild
I Stand to Lose My Fortune, Easy
Mercury Park
Forty Acres
Fiend By The Fence
Three Beggars
Hawk Mountain Line

Top Ten Albums of 2010

2010-12-11T13:38:00.000-08:00

Deerhunter - Halcyon Digest
Wolf Parade - Expo 86
Black Keys - Brothers
LCD Soundsystem - This is Happening
Arcade Fire - The Suburbs
Gorillaz - Plastic Beach
Big Boi - Sir Lucious Left Foot: The Son Of Chico Dusty
Broken Social Scene - Forgiveness Rock Record
Plants and Animals - La La Land
Cloud Cult - Light Chasers

Cloud Cult

2010-12-10T23:41:00.000-08:00

The Metro - Chicago, IL

Unless you've seen them live it's hard to understand why this band is so good. I've seem them many times over the past several years and this show was as good if not better than all the rest. The new songs off Light Chasers are loud and full of energy which the crowd seemed to feed off of. I'm always wanting to hear some of the older tunes of which they only played a couple, but I still walked away happier than I've been in a long time...

Wolf Parade

2010-11-23T21:56:00.001-08:00

House of Blues - Chicago, IL

Another impressive show from one of my favorite supergroups. The sound was many times better than their last performance in Chicago at Pitchfork this past summer. Both new and old songs were powerful and loud, but the highlight was easily "I'll Believe in Anything", simply amazing. The encore was pretty amazing as well, as it looked like they were going to end the night on "You are a Runner..." but they stopped short and went right into Fancy Claps to finish off the night. Unfortunately their indefinite hiatus has Wolf Parade stopping at once seems to be their peak, but hopefully they'll be back in a few years with a new album and supporting tour...

Dear sons and daughters
Language city
What did my lover say
Ghost pressure
Cloud Shadow
Fine young cannibals
Semi precious stone
Palm Road
I'll believe in Anything
Hearts on Fire
Kissing the beehive
Yulia
Runner ->
Fancy Claps

Soft Speaker / Mr. Gnome

2010-11-12T22:20:00.000-08:00

The Hideout - Chicago, IL

Mr Gnome was quite the unexpected treat as they opened up for Soft Speaker. The duo has an extremely powerful sound and the Hideout was the perfect venue for them as its even more impressive to see them perform up close. Soft Speaker followed with some new tunes that were very good upon first listen. The band sounded tight and I'm looking forward to hearing the new album as these tunes reflected a new sound that I really enjoyed...

Kurt Vile / The Soft Pack

2010-10-31T10:59:00.001-07:00

Empty Bottle - Chicago, IL

The Soft Pack started out with some quick and tight songs that seemed to pick up steam as the night went on. I enjoyed them all, but "Answer to Yourself" was probably my favorite.

Kurt Vile followed with some loud and grungy songs that sounded even better indoors (than the last time I saw them at Pitchfork). The Empty Bottle was the perfect venue for Vile's mix of loud followed by quiet and pristine acoustic:

Dandy Warhols

2010-10-30T23:39:00.000-07:00

The Vic - Chicago IL

Blue Giant was a very strong opener, bringing some nashville twang alongside some nice loud jams. The Dandys though blew the doors off the Vic with a huge wall of sound that made some weak in the knees. The setlist was surprisingly light on songs off the new album, but they are on tour supporting the Capitol Years album, so...

Deerhunter

2010-10-22T22:33:00.000-07:00

The Metro - Chicago, IL

Love the songs from Halcyon Digest live, even more than on the album. And to kick off the set the started right into my favorite song off said album:

Desire Lines
Hazel St.
Don't Cry
Revival
Never Stops
Little Kids
Memory Boy
Rainwater Cassette Exchange
Fountain Stairs
Nothing Ever Happened
Helicopter
He Would Have Laughed
Basement Scene
Twilight at Carbon Lake
Fluorescent Grey

Gorillaz

2010-10-16T22:20:00.000-07:00

UIC Pavilion - Chicago IL

Wow, couldn't have asked for anything more (well maybe Empire Ants and Some Kind of Nature, but I guess Little Dragon and Lou Reed weren't available):

Orchestral Intro (Extended)
Welcome to the World of the Plastic Beach
 19/2000 (with Rosie Wilson)
Last Living Souls
 O Green World
 Stylo (with Bobby Womack and Bootie Brown)
On Melancholy Hill
 Rhinestone Eyes
 Superfast Jellyfish (with De La Soul)
Kids With Guns 
Tomorrow Comes Today 
Broken (with Hypnotic Brass Ensemble)
Dirty Harry (with Bootie Brown)
El Mañana
 DARE (with Rosie Wilson)
White Flag (with Kano and Bashy, and the American Syrian Orchestra)
Glitter Freeze
 Plastic Beach
 Cloud of Unknowing (with Bobby Womack)
Punk 
Feel Good Inc. (with De La Soul)
Clint Eastwood (with Bashy and Kano)
Don't Get Lost In Heaven (with Bobby Womack)
Demon Days (with Bobby Womack)

Built to Spill

2010-09-25T07:56:00.001-07:00

The Vic - Chicago, IL

Yep, they still got it

Traces
Stab
Else
Hindsight
The Plan
Ripple (Grateful Dead cover)
In The Morning
Life's a Dream
Twin Falls
Some
Wherever You Go
Carry The Zero
The Weather
Car
Untrustable/Part 2

School of seven bells

2010-09-25T07:54:00.001-07:00

The Black Crowes

2010-08-21T23:22:00.000-07:00

The Chicago Theater

Since this is their farewell tour (for now) it was a little bittersweet to see the Crowes for the last time for a long while. The show was exactly what they said it would be, an acoustic set followed by an electric set, nearly 3 hours of rock n roll gospel. I can't understand how Chris Robinson can still belt out the songs the way he was 20 years ago, but his voice sounded just as good. Then there is Rich, who sang a few songs in addition to killing the guitar all night long. With the recent addition of Luther Dickinson in the past couple years, the band has just gotten tighter and more elaborate. The dueling slide guitars of Rich and Luther were unreal all night, trading off and playing off of one another. The Chicago theatre was a perfect venue for the marathon show, the acoustics were great and the crowd was extremely thankful. Hopefully they'll be back in a couple of years as they definitely have some more gas left in the tank...

- Acoustic Set -
Soul Singing
Hotel Illness
Good Friday
What Is Home
Downtown Money Waster
Do Right Woman
Jealous Again
My Hearts Killing Me
Thorn In My Pride
She Talks To Angels

- Electric Set -
My Morning Song ->
Stare It Cold ->
My Morning Song
Isn't It About Time
Dirty Hair Halo
Make Glad
Descending
Girl From The North Country
Ballad In Urgency ->
Wiser Time
- encore -
Remedy
Thick N Thin
Don't Do It

Autolux

2010-08-20T23:21:00.000-07:00

Bottom Lounge, Chicago, IL

This is a tough one. I really wanted to love this show, as the last time I saw Autolux in SF the sound was a little off. This time the sound was good, but they just didn't hold my attention as they used to. The set was obviously heavy on the new material due to the recent release and notably light on the older material. While some of the new songs were pretty damn good, they just don't have the same feel as their first album, so to me the set sounded disjointed. Still, when they are on, they are really on and the music they make is pretty amazing for just a trio. Maybe they just need to figure out a better setlist order? Either way, next time they better play Sugarless (or else)...

Transit Transit
Census
Audience No. 2
Sub-Zero Fun
Bouncing Wall
Turnstile Blues
Supertoys
The Science of Imaginary Solutions
Kissproof
Robots in the Garden
Spots
Highchair
Blanket
Plantlife
Headless Sky

My Morning Jacket

2010-08-17T23:01:00.000-07:00

Northerly Island - Chicago, IL

Sometimes there comes a point where you've seen a band so many times, that you just don't need to see them anymore. Well, that doesn't hold true for MMJ. Once again they blew me away with a 2.5 hour set of pure energy. Even the slower songs were phenomenal. Northerly Island surprisingly was a perfect venue for them, as you could tell the band was in great spirits and they loved Chicago. They were as tight as ever, as was made evident during the new song Circuital, which sounded like they've been playing it for years. I can't wait until the next time I get to see Mr James creepin around on stage in that cape. Chills...

Rollin Back
The Way That He Sings
Gideon
Mahgeetah
Dancefloors
Masterplan
Golden
Circuital
Touch Me I'm Going To Scream Pt.1
Anytime
Tonite I Want To Celebrate With You
Carried Away
I'm Amazed
Easy Morning Rebel
Dondante
Smokin from Shootin
Run Thru
Touch Me I'm Going To Scream Pt.2
Lay Low
Bermuda Highway
Wordless Chorus
Off The Record
Steam Engine
One Big Holiday

The Black Keys

2010-08-07T23:38:00.000-07:00

The Metro - Chicago, IL

What a great show from beginning to end. They came out to GZA's Liquid Swords, one of my favorite rap artists from the 90s, not to mention favorite songs. The set was pure rock, starting with some of their "classics" and then towards the middle integrating the new songs (with the addition of keyboard and bass player). At times the show reminded me of the White Stripes, two "brothers" feeding off of each other and having a damn good time. While the new songs were great, I still think the older tunes had more of their dirty, bluesy vibe that I've come to love. It's amazing to hear and see what two people can do on stage with just a drum set and a guitar. I hope they keep on doing it for a long time...

thickfreakness
girl is on my mind
10 am automatic
the breaks
stack shot billy
busted
everywhere i go
strange times
same old thing
everlasting light
next girl
chop and change
howlin' for you
tighten up
she's long gone
10 cent pistol
i'll be your man
your touch
no trust
i got mine
too afraid to love you
sinister kid
till i get my way

Plants and Animals

2010-08-01T23:05:00.001-07:00

Wicker Park Festival - Chicago, IL

As was to be expected, Plants and Animals played a shortened festival set, but it still was nice to see them back in Chicago. They started with what seemed to be a Nina Simone cover song, also mixed in with a little "Guru", which was an odd way to start, but also was kinda cool. Overall they were really energetic and into it, I just wish the sound was a little better. Other tracks that they played were: Game Shows, Jeans Jeans Jeans, Undone Melody, Faerie Dance, Good Friend, New Kind of Love, and ended with The Mama Papa.

Cotton Jones / the Parson Red Heads

2010-07-31T23:51:00.001-07:00

Schubas - Chicago, IL

Finally got to see the cotton jones basket ride (now shortened to cotton jones) and boy was it a treat. I was a little hesitant only because some of their older songs are mellow and I wasn't sure how they would translate to the live show. However, from the first song it was evident that they weren't going to make it a downtempo show. The energy was fast and furious from the get go and they never let up. The band featured 4 guitarists which definitely brought the heavy sound, not to mention co-singer Whitney on keyboards and some other device. One of the guitar players also seemed to be using an electronic device that mimicked the sound of a steel pedal guitar on his upright guitar, very cool to say the least. The tunes were heavy on the new album which I wasn't familiar with, but they sounded damn good, so much so that I purchased the album at their merch table afterwards. I did wish they would've played for more than 60 minutes, as they have quite the catalog of good songs that they didn't have time to get to. I also can't fail to mention the opener, the Parson Red Heads, who I had never heard of before, but had a nice laid back sound, with some great jamming at times. My only complaint is that just when the songs started to get real good, they seemed to end abruptly. Overall though, a great night of music, and I hope to see them again for an extended period of time...

Pitchfork Music Festival Day 3

2010-07-18T23:30:00.000-07:00

Union Park - Chicago, IL

Cass McCombs

Only caught the last song due to the storm that came through. I like what I heard but wish I could've heard more.

Best Coast

Not bad, but not great. Only heard a couple songs and the sound was decent, but just wasn't feeling it today.

Girls

I still can't figure out why so many people are in love with this band. The music was fine, but definitely not something I'd go out of my way to see again.

Washed Out

Early sound problems really made it hard for me to stay too long at what ended up being a clusterfuck by the time Local Natives took the stage. The first couple songs were really too slow, but he finally picked up the pace around the third or fourth song. It's just kind of hard for me to get excited about a guy playing with his laptop on stage with seriously downtempo beats. However, once the bass did hit, it was a pleasant surprise, but by the time I was on my way to see Beach House

Beach House

Unfortunately, Beach House sounded just like their albums, which was both good and bad. The music was good and the band was tight, but it's not something I'm inclined to stand up for, let alone keep my eyes open for. I listened to their most recent album many times to fall asleep to, and that's exactly what I wanted to do midway through their set.

Local Natives

I ditched Beach House to check out another overhyped band. However, I was pleasantly surprised when they actually sounded great. Unfortunately, Pitchfork struck again and there was some serious sound bleed coming from the Beach House stage. It was amazing that such a quiet band could reach so far, but also due to extremely crowded small B stage and we were pushed to the far back. The speakers for the B stage were messed up again, as I heard many cracks throughout the first few songs. The highlight for me was when they covered Talking Heads' Warning Sign, and they actually nailed it.

Lightning Bolt

Loud

St. Vincent

Well, I can't say anything bad about Annie and her band, but I didn't feel the need to get up and even see the stage, so I guess that says it all. They were nice enough, and had a few good moments, but overall I just wasn't interested. I guess the sun and long days had gotten to me by this point.

Major Lazer

They pretty much did exactly what I expected them to. Recreate their ridiculous videos on stage to some good and some bad music. The highlight was of course when the lead singer climbed to the top of a ladder and proclaimed, "We gonna smoke some weed and get high, and most importantly have some sex and get pregnant!" He then jumped off the ladder onto the girl that was spread eagle on stage and proceeded to hump. Lots of Scissoring followed, along with some more ridiculous proclamations and songs. I'm sure it was a real treat for the 8 year old girl in front of me, as she asked her Mommy what the man on stage was doing...

Big Boi

It's no secret I've been a fan of Outkast since high school and even lived in Atlanta for a little bit. So I was all too familiar with Big Boi and most of his songs. I'm also a big fan of his new and long awaited solo album that was finally just released. Fortunately, he came strong, with a full band, and some fast rhymes that didn't disappoint. At times I thought he was lip syncing as some of his lyrics were right in time with the videos he had playing. But no, it was clear he was truly rhyming ridiculously fast and fierce. The songs spanned his entire career and the crowd seemed to be genuinely into it, as was I.

ATLiens
Skew it on the Bar-B
Rosa Parks
So Fresh So Clean
Ms Jackson
General Patton
Follow Us
Daddy Fat Sax
Ghetto Musick
B.O.B
Shutterbug
Southernplayalistic
Players Ball
Elevators
We Will Rock You (Freddie Mercury singing)
Return of the Jedi song
Shine Blockas
Fo Yo Sorrows
Way You Move
Kryptonite
Aint no DJ

Pavement

I'm not sure which was the bigger mistake of the festival. Putting Panda Bear on the C stage opening up for LCD Soundsystem, or letting Rian Murphy on stage to blabber endlessly supposedly as an old radio DJ introducing Pavement. The guy would not shut up and the things coming out of his mouth just infuriated me and the rest of the crowd. I've never seen more people Boo a person introducing a band before than at this show, and the guy deserved it as it never seemed to end. Sorry buddy, i know you were trying to be funny or pretend you were Andy Kauffman, but it was just plain annoying. As for the actual music, Pavement Rocked. Malkmus definitely tripped up a few times, but that's to be expected, especially with such old songs they were playing. But the crowd that remained really was loving the classic tunes that Pavement was offering up. Definitely a great ending to a overall good experience at Pitchfork. Probably my last, but it was cool while it lasted...

Cut Your Hair
In The Mouth A Desert
Silence Kit
Kennel District
Shady Lane
Frontwards
Unfair
Grounded
Debris Slide
Spit on a Stranger
Range Life
Perfume-V
Trigger Cut
Stereo
Two States
Gold Soundz
Conduit For Sale!
Stop Breathin
Here
The Hexx

Pitchfork Music Festival Day 2

2010-07-17T23:29:00.000-07:00

Union Park - Chicago, IL

Free Energy

Unfortunately I only got to see the last song of their set, but it definitely rocked and the crowd was really into it. I liked what I saw but can't be sure about the rest of the set.

Real Estate

Sorry guys, just too boring for me so I stood around for a few minutes before heading to...

Sonny & the Sunsets

Turns out, this was the set that was the reason I came back to Pitchfork this year. Not Sonny & the Sunsets particularly, but the fact that I was able to check out a great band in the middle of the afternoon, amongst a small group of people that all seemed to be really enjoying the music (See Cymbals Eat Guitars, Pitchfork 2009). This was my sleeper of the festival, the one show that I will probably look back on most fondly. I'd listened to a few tracks of theirs so I knew what to expect, however live they sounded even better. The vocals reminded me of Lou Reed and some of the songs were even Velvet Underground reminiscent, all good things. There songs ran the gamut from talking about kids getting high to choosing Home or Away (Sonny chose Home, I believe).

Kurt Vile

I didn't really know what to expect, as Kurt Vile has music that is kinda hard to nail down. And that's pretty much how I felt about his live show, all over the place, but great. His voice reminded me of Tom Petty, while some of the songs made me think of Lou Reed again. Overall his band had a great sound with some great guitar work. The harp player was a nice addition as well. What I thought was a steel drum or a keyboard turned out to actually be her plucking hard and strong on the harp.

Titus Andronicus

I wasn't a huge fan of these guys before seeing them play, and honestly I'm still not. I do have to say that they are good musicians and their final song did have a lot of energy. Overall it just reminded me of Celtic music, not something I'm a huge fan of. But to each their own.

Raekwon

Preface: I have been a Wu Tang Clan fan since the early 90s and will probably always remain one.
However, that doesn't give the right for him (or his crew) to show up late, like they do at every other concert I've ever been to of theirs. I pretty much expected the worst, as I do with most live rap shows these days. I honestly can't understand why they didn't setup and check the equipment during the hour they had. It seemed like the turntables were up there for quite a while, and then they just decided to check on them right before show time. So, of course the Chef started 15 minutes late (and the sound still wasn't right). Was it Pitchfork's fault or Raekwon's crew? Either way, he did put on a decent show in the 30 minutes he had remaining and managed to squeeze in a bunch of classics as well as some new tracks from OBFCL2. One of the highlights was actually not from the Chef himself, but from the Chitown Breakers (little kid breakdancing crew, probably none over 12 years old). Apparently they are all brothers and sisters and showed us some classic break dancing moves in concert to Raekwon yelling out "Wu tang clan ain't nothin to fuck wit" and they put on a nice show. I also enjoyed his banter and shout outs, especially for Chicago's Pot Pan Pizza, as he called it as only the chef can. A few of the tracks from what I recall:

CREAM
Can it all be so simple
Protect Ya Neck
Glaciers of Ice
Ice Cream
Gihad
Wu Tang Clan Aint Nuthin to Fuck Wit
New Wu
Triumph

The Jon Spencer Blues Explosion

Well, Jon Spencer wins the award for best dressed, or best effort. His tight black leather pants must've been so hot, one can only imagine. But the blues and rock they cranked out was pretty great. Chicken Dog stood out for me, but there were some other great tracks that made the trio's set well worth standing in the heat for.

Wolf Parade

Easily one of my favorite bands of the 2000s, not to mention their side bands (Sunset Rubdown and Handsome Furs), so I knew exactly what to expect. I was a little afraid of the sound, but fortunately the main stage (A) was back to where it should be, Loud and Loud. They mixed some songs from Expo 86 along with some from both of their first two albums, but did seem a little heavy on the new stuff (as was expected). Spencers vocals were the highlight for me as usual, as his voice is so unique and different from everyone else out there. Dan's songs were good too, but the band really shines when the they both sing on the same song, as they did several times throughout the set. These guys sound better every time I hear them, and are able to change the tempo and overall sound of some of the songs that you never know what to expect. I can't say enough about this band except that I loved what I heard and can't wait for more...

Cloud Shadow on the Mountain
Soldier's Grin
Dear Sons and Daughters of Hungry Ghosts
Palm Road
What Did My Lover Say? (it always had to go this way)
Ghost Pressure
This Heart's on Fire
I'll Believe in Anything
Little Golden Age
Cave-O-Sapien
Kissing the Beehive

Panda Bear

Unfortunately we had to endure a set of "music" by a member of Animal Collective. I really can't understand what the creators of Pitchfork were thinking when they decided to let this guy basically open up for LCD Soundsystem. My requirements for an opener would be 1) they must play actual music 2) the music must be upbeat 3) the music should get the crowd pumped up and warmed up for LCD 4) see number 1. Seriously, at times it sounded like a whale was dying on stage. Someone else said it sounded like a spaceship backing up. Either way, it wasn't good and really brought me and everyone else around me down.

LCD Soundsystem

Essentially this was the same set Murphy played at Metro a few weeks ago (minus a couple songs), not that there's anything wrong with that. They sounded damn good and surprisingly loud outside at Union Park. The crowd was REALLY into it as well which definitely helped the vibe. If you haven't seen LCD Soundsystem live, they are definitely one to check out. If you have, then this was another one of those shows where it's hard for you not to enjoy the sounds emanating from the stage. Highlight of the night was Murphy employing not one, but two cow bells...

Us V Them
Drunk Girls
Pow Pow
Daft Punk Is Playing at My House
All My Friends
I Can Change
Tribulations
Movement
Yeah
Someone Great
Losing My Edge
New York, I Love You But You're Bringing Me Down / Empire State Of Mind

Pitchfork Music Festival Day 1

2010-07-16T23:28:00.000-07:00

Union Park - Chicago, IL

Sharon Van Etten

I made a point to start off the festival weekend on time, to see as many acts as possible and so Sharon was the first. Unfortunately she didn't really kick things off in the right way for me. She has a great voice, but not much energy on stage. She did seem very nice and enjoyed having the crowd watch her, just wish her music was a little more interesting. A backing band for instance could do a little to help the cause.

Tallest Man on Earth

Fortunately the energy from Kristian Matsson was there to keep me and the rest of the crowd from running to find some shade. He played solo, but he also brought a lot of energy and it came out through his singing and guitar work. Even though it seemed he was trying to channel Dylan he still managed to have his own sound and spirit which everyone seemed to enjoy.

EL P

El P was up next for me and to be honest, they didn't start off well. The first song was just in your face and not pleasant. However, the production elevated with each subsequent song, as the rest of the band came into their own. He actually had a drummer, guitar player and a couple of keyboard players that really created a nice layer of sound.

Liars

This was my second time seeing Liars in a festival setting, and this one was no better than the first. I remembered them being loud and not really sounding much like music. This set was similar, with maybe a few more songs that made sense thrown into the mix. However, they completely lost me towards the end with the lead singer's invitation to the crowd: "...There's water stations everywhere, one here in my pants, you can come on stage and have a go at it..."

Broken Social Scene

Hard for me to really give a glowing review of BSS's set, since the sound was piss poor. Once again Pitchfork's sound just couldn't carry too far when it needed to (similar to shades of last year). The sound would come in and out at times, but the crackling speaker really just left a bad taste in my mouth which is unfortunate because I really like BSS, especially live. The set was short but sweet and ended with their new self-proclaimed anthem instrumental

World Sick
Stars and Sons
Texico Bitches
7/4 (Shoreline)
Fire Eye'd Boy
Forced to Love
Cause=Time
All to All
Ungrateful Little Father
Superconnected
Meet Me in the Basement

Modest Mouse

I can't complain too much about this set, especially for an outdoor festival, i expected the worst and hoped for the best. I walked away happy and content, however a die-hard Modest Mouse friend of mine was the complete opposite. He wanted the old songs, the rare songs, the songs we knew they weren't going to play. Instead we mainly heard tracks off of the most recent records, which did sound pretty good. There were a few missteps here and there but overall they jammed pretty hard. My friend was right though, they seemed to only play songs from 2000 and onward (except where noted below), which makes you wonder whether they can even play those older songs anymore...

Tiny Cities Made of Ashes (2000)
Here It Comes (2001)
This Devil's Workday (2004)
Education (2007)
Satellite Skin (2009)
Autumn Beds (2009)
Dashboard (2007)
Satin In A Coffin (2004)
Dramamine (1996)
Life Like Weeds (2000)
Parting Of The Sensory (2007)
The View (2004)
The Whale Song (2009)
Gravity Rides Everything (2000)
Black Cadillacs (2004)

Cloud Cult

2010-06-27T23:36:00.000-07:00

Green Music Festival, Chicago IL

LCD Soundsystem

2010-05-26T23:26:00.000-07:00

The Metro - Chicago, IL

Another great show at an amazing venue. Holy Ghost opened up with five tracks that weren't bad, but defintely paled in comparison to the sound that LCD emitted 45 minutes later. Their two hour set was something to behold, especially at such an intimate venue (since they now seem to be a festival playing band). The music was loud and each song got the crowd moving. I'm not sure how LCD's Pitchfork show can be any better than this, but it will be interesting to find out...

Setlist:
Us v Them
Drunk Girls
Yr City's A Sucker
Pow Pow
Daft Punk Is Playing At My House
All I Want
All My Friends
I Can Change
Tribulations
Movement
Yeah (Crass Version)
Someone Great
Losing My Edge
New York I Love You / Empire State of Mind

Plants and Animals

2010-05-15T23:19:00.000-07:00

Lincoln Hall - Chicago, IL

It's always great when you are pleasantly surprised with an opening band, especially if you've never heard of them before. Elliot Brood was exactly that. The crowd started out quiet and small to say the least, but ended up getting into it towards the end of their 45 minute set. The songs were lively, varied and pretty damn good as the three piece incorporated acoustic and electric guitars along with banjos and dueling ukuleles. I was actually a little nervous that Plants and Animals might not be able to follow such an impressive opening act, but my fears quickly vanished after the first few moments of their opener "New Kind of Love". I'd seen these guys previously at Pitchfork Music Festival and was again pleasantly surprised as I'd only heard bits and pieces from Parc Avenue at the time. This show was a huge improvement over P4k, mainly because of the intimate setting of Lincoln Hall and the huge sound that the trio were able to produce. Also adding to the sound were the songs from their 2010 release (La La Land) which were even better live than on the album. They created some new interpretations of the songs from the album which was unexpected and more than welcome. Kon Tiki for instance felt a little sped up, which was perfect for the night, since it seemed they were trying to keep the energy level high. My feeling is that once you immerse yourself into either of their albums, their live show just goes to prove how amazingly talented these guys really are...

Setlist:
New Kind of Love
Fake It
Celebration
Good Friend
Kon Tiki
Undone Melody
Jeans Jeans Jeans
Feedback in the Field
Tom Cruz
Faerie Dance
Mercy
The Mama Papa
Game Shows
Guru

Cloud Cult

2010-04-15T23:30:00.000-07:00

Lincoln Hall - Chicago IL

Another solid Cloud Cult show in an intimate venue. The size of the rooms have gotten a little larger and fortunately the sound has grown with them. Tonight was no exception, in fact if the new tracks they played are any indication, the new album should be better than the last. The highlight of the night for me was the extended "Living on the Outside of Your Skin" intro, into the full song, followed by a powerful rendition of Pretty Voice. I actually thought they might play those songs in that order and called it out before hand and had chills once it all went down. Apparently there was also an engagement, as a guy proposed to his girlfriend on stage in the middle of the show. Definitely something I've never seen before, but it only added to the great night of music...

Bear in Heaven / Cymblas Eat Guitars

2010-04-04T23:29:00.000-07:00

Schubas - Chicago IL

I know i'm probably in the minority, however I still feel that Cymbals Eat Guitars were the worthy headliner on this night. Don't get me wrong, Bear in Heaven were a great opening act and have a lot going for them. Something bothered me though with their sound. Not sure if it was what appeared to be a background track playing throughout almost every song, or the fact that the lead singer's outputted voice was not his own. The music sounded good for sure, but it just felt a little too manufactured for me that night. Cymbals on the other hand were the complete opposite. Their music was raw and all of the place, both good and bad. I do have to question their front loading of new songs in the set, as they definitely lost some of the audience there. However, the finale was something special, hit after hit and a wall of music that was impressive as hell. Unfortunately, most of my friends had left before they were able to experience what I thought were the best songs of the night...

Flying Lotus

2010-04-02T13:28:00.000-07:00

Double Door - Chicago IL

I wasn't really sure what to expect from Flying Lotus. I'd read some reviews that he got really into the music during his live performances, so I was expecting a little more than some guy pushing buttons. Thankfully he came through on that end. Not only was the music powerful and moving, but I haven't seen a DJ that into his music in a long time. Dancing, swaying, moving his arms, directing the crowd, all showed he really enjoyed what he was doing. The background video/images also added to the vibe, making it an enjoyable night of both sight and sound. Kode 9 was a decent opener too, definitely got the crowd moving with some Method Man towards the end, which was fun...

The Hideout Send Off

2010-03-13T11:23:00.000-08:00

The Hideout - Chicago, IL

Pomegranates

2010-01-17T12:57:00.000-08:00

In-Store @ Reckless Records

Short but great set that included several new tunes. Highlights were In the Kitchen and Prouncer.

Top Albums of 2009

2009-12-31T19:32:00.000-08:00

sunset rubdown - dragonslayer
if you've never seen these guys live, do yourself a favor and do so. their sound has grown significantly over the years and this album is of epic proportions.

dinosaur jr - farm
this is a band that won't quit making good music. it's like 1988 all over again, but in a good way.

modest mouse - no one's first and you're next (EP)
for an EP this really blew me away. these songs are throwaways for them, but for an ordinary band it'd be their claim to fame.

doves - kingdom of rust
another comeback album, this one with good results. the songs flow and still have that same great vibe as in "Some Cities".

miike snow - miike snow
some great pop tunes, but they are even better live. I wasn't convinced upon first listen, but seeing the guys perform these songs in person takes them to a whole new level.

the black crowes - before the frost...until the freeze
sure they've been around forever and people write them off. however, this album proves that the crowes can still make good rock. their live show has gotten even better with the addition of luther dickinson on slide guitar (the album was recorded live in front of a small audience).

raekwon - only built for cuban linx 2
the album that almost never was. didn't exactly live up to the hype, but this one shows that raekwon and ghost are still the kings of the wu.

cymbals eat guitars - why there are mountains
another case of "probably would never have heard of these guys had I not seen them at Pitchfork Music fest". The album is cohesive and great from start to finish.

built to spill - there is no enemy
possibly their best album of the decade. The album grows on you with every listen and has some great hooks.

brakes - touchdown
a band that definitely goes unnoticed in the US and one that has to be seen live to truly appreciate how intense these guys can get. Touchdown is their most accessible album, but that's not such a bad thing as they need the exposure.

Top Shows of 2009

2009-12-30T19:36:00.000-08:00

Sunset Rubdown - Logan Square Auditorium (visits 1 and 2)

Wilco - UIC Pavillion

The Black Crowes - The Riviera

Dinosaur Jr - The Vic Theater

Pixies - Aragon Ballroom

Miike Snow/Jack Penate - The Empty Bottle

TV on the Radio - Double Door

Doves - The Vic

Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks - Bottom Lounge

Brakes - The Empty Bottle

Brendan Benson - Schubas

Modest Mouse - The Fox Theater

Deerhunter - Lollapalooza

The Breeders - Double Door

Viva Voce - Rickshaw Stop

Flaming Lips

2009-12-11T23:40:00.000-08:00

All State Arena - Rosemont, IL

The Lips made up for a less than steller performance at Pitchfork with a powerful performance that featured a few new standout tracks from their latest album. Could've used a longer set with a couple more new tunes, but this show proved that they can still rock if left to their own devices.

Partial Setlist:
Race for the Prize
Silver Trembling Hands
See the Leaves
In the Morning of the Magicians
Convinced of the Hex
Yeah Yeah Yeah Song
the WAND
Yoshimi
She Don't Use Jelly
Do You Realize?

Pixies

2009-11-20T23:42:00.000-08:00

Aragon Ballroom - Chicago, IL

Great show and great sound. I was a little nervous about Frank Black's voice, but his screaming never seemed to let up all night. The rest of the band was tight as well, not surprising since they are playing basically the same set, night after night. The background videos were nicely timed to the songs and definitely added another level to the already impressive light show.

Dancing The Manta Ray
Weird At My School
Bailey's Walk
Manta Ray
Debaser
Tame
Wave Of Mutilation
I Bleed
Here Comes Your Man
Dead
Monkey Gone To Heaven
Mr. Grieves
Crackity Jones
La La Love You
No. 13 Baby
There Goes My Gun
Hey
Silver
Gouge Away

Encore:
Wave Of Mutilation (UK Surf)
Into The White

Encore 2:
Isla De Encanta
Nimrod's Son
U-Mass
Velouria

Devendra Banhart

2009-11-16T22:27:00.000-08:00

The Vic - Chicago, IL

For as excited as I was before entering the Vic, I have to say that excitement quickly left as I saw the seats setup all across the floor of the venue. Not sure if that was Devendra's request (although I wouldn't put it past him), but it definitely set the tone for what was mostly a lackluster night. He ended his set with a show saving Rats, and the encore of Chinese Children and Feel Like a Child were welcome pickmeups, but they couldn't redeem the uneven music that preceded.

Long Haired Child
16th and Valencia
Can’t Help But Smiling
Little Yellow Spider (solo acoustic)
Sight To Behold (solo acoustic)
How’s About Telling A Story (solo acoustic)
Maria Lonza
Foolin
Brindo
No One’s Better Sake (Little Joy)
Lover
Angelika
“It’s Gonna Take Some Time To Be Alone With You”
I Remember
Charles C. Leary
You Can’t Put Your Arms Around A Memory
“New Song Hot off the Fudging Press” (Priestbird)
Carmensita
Rats
Chinese Children
Feel Like A Child

The Black Crowes

2009-11-06T23:32:00.000-08:00

The Riviera - Chicago, IL

Oh boy, another amazing rock n roll show. It honestly doesn't get much better than this. Luther Dickinson was once again amazing and the boys just didn't let up...

Good Morning Captain
Cursed Diamond
Bad luck blue eyes
Shine along
Roll old Jeremiah
Good Friday
Ozone mama
I Aint Hidin
Oh sweet nuthin
Halfway to everywehere
Josephine
Remedy
Been a long time
No speak No Slave
Last place that love lives
Gods got it

Sunset Rubdown

2009-10-19T23:24:00.000-07:00

Logan Square Auditorium - Chicago, IL

Another instant classic:

Silver Moons
Black swan
The Taming of the hands that came back to life
Dragon's Lair
The Empty Threat of Little Lord
Idiot Heart
You go on ahead (trumpet trumpet II)
Paper lace
The Mending of the Gown
The men are called horsemen there
Trumpet, trumpet, toot! toot!
Us ones in between

* they threw in a new song about vampires somewhere in the middle

Wilco

2009-10-18T23:19:00.000-07:00

UIC Pavilion - Chicago, IL

Wilco
A Shot in the Arm
Bull Black Nova
You Are My Face
I Am Trying to Break Your Heart
One Wing
Misunderstood
At Least That's What You Said
Deeper Down
Impossible Germany
It's Just That Simple
I'll Fight
Handshake Drugs
Sunny Feeling
Jesus, Etc.
Theologians
I'm Always in Love
Hate It Here
Walken
I'm the Man Who Loves You
You Never Know
Heavy Metal Drummer
Just a Kid
Kingpin
Monday
Outtasite (Outta Mind)
Hoodoo Voodoo
I'm a Wheel

Dinosaur Jr.

2009-10-15T23:17:00.000-07:00

The Vic - Chicago, IL
J, Lou and Murph haven't lost it. The band was as tight as ever and they seemed to be in great spirits offering up some banter here and there. The sound wasn't nearly as overpowering as previous shows, thus no ringing ears, which is nice. The setlist was a little Farm heavy, but they threw in some great classics to please the hardcore fans.

Setlist:
Thumb
In a Jar
I want to know
Imagination Blind
Get Me
Pieces
Plans
Feel the Pain
Over It
Forget the Swan
Back to the Heart
The Wagon
Freak Scene
Just Like Heaven
The Lung

Brakes

2009-10-12T23:11:00.000-07:00

Empty Bottle - Chicago, IL
What a great show and a great band. No offense to the other bands performing afterwards but it was pretty obvious that the Brakes stole the show tonight. This one has been a long time comin as I've missed their last previous shows in San Francisco. The setlist was varied and upbeat, especially when they threw in Cheney (by request no less) and then even played all 8 seconds of the song twice in a row.

DJs Duke and Nate

2009-09-29T13:44:00.000-07:00

pritzker pavillion - Chicago, IL

Miike Snow / Jack Penate

2009-09-25T23:25:00.000-07:00

Empty Bottle - Chicago, IL

Great great show from both bands

Here's a video with some really distorted sound that I took, gives you a good idea of the energy at least:

Brendan Benson

2009-08-20T22:32:00.000-07:00

Schubas - Chicago, IL

A Whole lot better
Folk singer
Eyes on the Horizon
Good to me
Sittin pretty
Metarie

Me Just Purely
Don't wanna talk
I'm blessed
Garbage day
You're quiet
Cold hands, Warm Heat
What I'm looking for
Spit it out
Tiny spark
Borrow
Alternative to Love
Feel like Taking you home

The Breeders

2009-08-13T18:22:00.000-07:00

Double Door - Chicago, IL

It's been a long time coming, but I finally got to see the Breeders. After missing them in SF due to work and having to eat the ticket I was pretty excited when they announced the show in Chicago. Bonus, at the last minute the show was moved to the Double Door from the Metro. The setlist was heavy on Mountain Battles, but they still churned out some of my favorites from Last Splash (Cannonball, Divine Hammer, Do you love me now, New Year, No Aloha). However, I never thought they'd play Drivin on 9, and to end the night with it was a special treat. Just like 1993 all over again.

Sorry for the distortion on the bass, but you can get an idea of how intimate the show was at least...

Divine Hammer:

Drivin on 9:

No Deachunter

2009-08-09T23:56:00.000-07:00

Logan Square Auditorium - Chicago, IL

Stupid sunstroke/heat exhaustion prevented me from attending this show and wasting this:

Lolla '09 - Sunday

2009-08-09T18:33:00.000-07:00

Grant Park - Chicago, IL

Kaiser Chiefs

Raveonettes

Neko Case

Dan Auerbach

Deerhunter

TV on the Radio

2009-08-07T23:58:00.000-07:00

Double Door - Chicago, IL

Wish I coulda got some video/audio of this show. The sound was perfect even with the amazing horn section (last time at the Warfield, not so much). Just goes to show what a great venue can do for a great band. They mostly played songs from Dear Science, but when they busted out a classic like Young Liars, the place really went nuts. Probably the hottest show I've been to since Bonnaroo, however it was definitely worth it for the 1.5 hours of music they cranked out.

Love Dog
The Wrong Way
Golden Age
Crying
Wolf Like Me
Red Dress
Young Liars
Shout Me Out
Dancing Choose
DLZ

Encore:
Staring at the Sun

The Omega Moos

2009-07-26T15:30:00.000-07:00

Double Door - Chicago, IL

Rest of the two set (2.5 hour show):

Girls on Film - Duran Duran
I can't go for that (no can do) - Hall & Oates
Don't you want me - Human League
After the love has gone - Earth, Wind and Fire
She Blinded me with Science - Thomas Dolby
Double Vision - Foreigner
Sunglasses at Night - Corey Hart
Working for the Weekend - Loverboy
Shine a little love - ELO

Grandy Duchy

2009-07-25T15:21:00.000-07:00

Wicker Park Festival - Chicago, IL

Black Francis and his wife put on a nice little street show. The new album is pretty good and they played most of the songs off of it. From what I remember:

Lovesick
Threshold Apprehension
Black Suit
Break the Angels
The Long Song
Ermesinde
Volcano!

Pitchfork Day 3

2009-07-19T19:36:00.000-07:00

Union Park - Chicago, IL

Frightened Rabbit - a little hint of U2, but overall enjoyable
Blitzen Trapper - back to the shitty stage and the sound just didn't do them justice
The Killer Whales - nice and loud
Women - for some reason hard to hear again, but they had some good moments
DJ/Rupture - the sound was working great for the best (and only) DJ set of the day
Japandroids - another surprise. pretty great and loud show for only two dudes
M83 - boring
Grizzly Bear - even more boring
The Flaming Lips - Wayne Coyne's big F U to Pitchfork was obvious when he referred to the "all requests" format as "demands". He then proceeded to phone the show in including two A Capella versions of the most requested songs (Fight Test, Yoshimi). The birthing scene at the beginning was a nice surprise though, thanks so much!

Pitchfork Day 2

2009-07-18T19:18:00.000-07:00

Union Park - Chicago, IL
Cymbals Eat Guitars - One of the highlights of the day. These guys were truly honored to be playing in front of such a large crowd and they really came through with a tight and rocking set:

The Dutchess & the Duke - soft
Plants and Animals - another highlight, these guys were great, especially for never hearing their music before
Fucked Up - noise
The Antlers - another group that took me by surprise and put on a great set
The Pains of Being Pure at Heart - uninteresting
Bowerbirds - boring
Yeasayer - decent, but liked them better when they were called Rusted Root
Doom - I think it actually was him, live and in person:

Beirut - mellow, but the band sounded good and his voice was on point
The National - not loud enough to make us stick around

Pitchfork Day 1

2009-07-17T19:12:00.000-07:00

Union Park - Chicago, IL

Tortoise - not bad background music
Jesus Lizard - loud
Yo La Tengo - soft, way too soft due to the terrible sound system
Built To Spill - once again way too soft due to the terrible sound system

Overall - the night was pretty much killed due to the lack of foresight on the festival's part by featuring the headliners on the worst stage at the entire venue.

Sunset Rubdown

2009-07-07T23:19:00.000-07:00

Logan Square Auditorium - Chicago, IL

Epic show. At times they had 3 drummers, two keyboards, and one guitar. Other times, two guitars, one drummer, two keyboards. At one point, six or seven artists were on stage for Nightingale/December Song and the roof almost ripped apart. Needless to say, the songs off Dragonslayer were even better live than I could have imagined. Full setlist to come, but here's what I remembered fondly (not in order):

the empty threats of little lord
Black Swan
idiot heart
Silver Moons
Apollo And The Buffalo And Anna Anna Anaa Oh!
Us Ones in Between
Nightengale/December Song
Up on Your Leopard, Upon the End of Your Feral Days
The Mending of the Gown
Paper Lace
The Taming of the Hands That Came Back to Life
You Go On Ahead (Trumpet Trumpet II)
Dragons Lair
Winged/Wicked Things:

Stephen Malkmus & the Jicks

2009-07-02T23:19:00.000-07:00

Bottom Lounge - Chicago, IL
They never disappoint. The crowd was a little obnoxious, but fortunately they didn't really effect the rock. Man they sounded good.

Highlights:
4 or 5 great new songs
Hopscotch Willie
It Kills
Cold Son
Elmo Delmo
Baby C'mon
Dragonfly Pie
Real Emotional Trash
(Not the best sound on my recording, but you get the idea):

Black Moth Super Rainbow

2009-06-29T20:25:00.000-07:00

Pritzker Pavilion - Chicago, IL

Dirty projectors + the Sea and Cake

2009-06-22T20:24:00.000-07:00

Pritzker Pavilion - Chicago, IL

Viva Voce & Handsome Furs

2009-05-30T20:16:00.000-07:00

Do Division Festival - Chicago, IL

While both sets were short (Viva's at 45 minutes and Furs at about 35 minutes) they both gave their all. VV played a good mix of new and old and impressed the crowd with some tight tunes and sweet solos. The Handsome Furs seemed to draw an even bigger crowd and played some solid tunes as well from the first and second records. The duo are very into each other, so much that it seemed they might just do it right there on stage...

Doves

2009-05-29T23:15:00.000-07:00

The Vic - Chicago, IL

This show has been a long time coming. Surprisingly I wasn't the only one waiting, as the Vic was sold out and completely packed (mostly with dudes). Even more surprising was the crowd was really into it and it seemed I wasn't the only one who was impressed with the sound. It was ok on the floor (we were in the back), but once we went to the balcony we got to experience the full sound of the entire band. Unfortunately there were a few moments when I couldn't actually see where the vocals/instruments were coming from (making me think they were using some background tracks off and on). But no matter, the overall sound was awesome as I was afraid they wouldn't be able to reproduce that studio album sound live. They succeeded, I just hope they don't wait another 4 years before their next tour and album. The tracks off the new album sounded even better live, especially "10:03" and "the Outsiders". Even "Winter Hill" (which is slowly growing on me) sounded much improved in the live setting.

Setlist:
Jetstream
Snowden
Winter Hill
Rise
Pounding
Almost Forgot Myself
10:03
Words
Denier
Kingdom of Rust
Ambition
Black & White Town
The Outsiders
Caught By the River

Encore:
Firesuite
Here it Comes
The Last Broadcast
There Goes the Fear

The Silent Years

2009-04-30T23:33:00.000-07:00

Subterranean - Chicago,IL

I really like this band, especially for never hearing their music before until last week. They mix a bunch of different styles, so it's hard to describe their sound. The lead singer (Josh) has a great voice which he made clear on several songs, extremely impressive. I highly recommend taking a listen to their songs on myspace or itunes and checking them out should they be in your town...

French Kicks

2009-04-22T23:24:00.000-07:00

Schuba's Tavern - Chicago, IL

VERY mellow show. I liked Schuba's a lot, but the venue couldn't save the French Kicks from being flat out boring. I really like them on album, but I just can't go to any more of their shows if they insist on leaving all the high energy songs for the encore. If you guys need some help with your setlist, please let me know...

Viva Voce

2009-03-13T00:10:00.000-07:00

The Rickshaw Stop - San Francisco, CA

Last show in SF :/
The new 4 piece setup was different, but a welcome change. Their sound is fuller and definitely louder. Looking forward to the new album this summer...

Night sweat

2009-03-01T01:57:00.000-08:00

Stephen Malkmus

2009-02-25T23:22:00.000-08:00

Great American Music Hall - San Francisco, CA

"Historical" - B. Jarmon

Setlist:

Harness Your Hopes
Us
Blue Arrangements (Silver Jews)
Starlings Of The Slipstream
Pink India
Spit On A Stranger
Fin
Range Life
Real Emotional Trash
Loretta's Scars
We Have Laid Here Before
You Won't Forget Our Colors
Freeze The Saints
Shoot The Singer
Zurich Is Stained
Heaven Is A Truck
Vanessa From Queens
Here
Encore:
Love Train (O'Jays)
Emotional Rescue (Rolling Stones)
Summer Babe

Modest Mouse

2009-02-22T23:42:00.000-08:00

The Fox Theater - Oakland, CA

I heard many mixed reviews after this show, however I'm going to stick to what I know to be true, Modest Mouse rocks. There were hardly any missteps throughout the almost 90 minute set, except for the sound. Sure the Fox Theater is suddenly one of the nicest places to see live music in the bay area, however the sound has a way to go before it can become the premiere venue they are hoping for. Highlights of the night for me were Spitting Venom and Parting of the Sensory...

Setlist:
3rd Planet
Black Cadillacs
Doin' The Cockroach
Dashboard
Wild Packs Of Family Dogs
King Rat
The View
Rains On Me [Tom Waits]
Baby Blue Sedan
Satellite Skin
Tiny Cities Made Of Ashes
Spitting Venom
Paper Thin Walls
The Good Times Are Killing Me
Education
Parting Of The Sensory
Encore:
Interstate 8
All Night Diner
Alone Down There

Slipstream Sparrows + Bruises of Unknown Origin + The Southern Oracle

2009-01-31T19:50:00.000-08:00

Hotel Utah - San Francisco, CA

Solid lineup of great music. Good times

NMAS

2009-01-24T19:44:00.000-08:00

The Independent - San Francisco, CA

The North Mississippi Allstars never disappoint. Luther Dickinson is easily one of the best guitar players around. At times they are very reminiscent of the Allman Brothers (especially during the jams and solos), but that's definitely not a bad thing...

Top Shows of 2008*

2008-12-20T12:55:00.000-08:00

1) Ryan Adams & The Cardinals - The Fillmore
2) My Morning Jacket - The Greek
3) The Black Crowes - The Fillmore
4) Radiohead - Outside Lands Festival
5) Beck - The Independent
6) Wolf Parade - The Fillmore
7) Deerhunter - Great American Music Hall
8) Mudcrutch - The Fillmore
9) Ryan Adams & The Cardinals - Zellerbach Auditorium
10) Ryan Adams & The Cardinals - Marin Veterans Auditorium
11) Broken Social Scene/Wilco - Outside Lands
12) The Dandy Warhols - The Warfield
13) Stephen Malkmus and the Jicks - The Fillmore
14) Workingman's Ed - Ursa Minor
15) Sigur Ros - The Greek
16) Ice Cube - The Fillmore
17) Kings of Leon - The Warfield
18) Mercury Rev - The Independent
19) Modest Mouse - The Greek
20) Frank Black & Der Golem - Castro Theater

(* SF Bay Area)

Top Albums of 2008

2008-12-20T12:01:00.000-08:00

1) Wolf Parade - At Mount Zoomer

2) Deerhunter - Microcastle/Weird Era Cont.

3) My Morning Jacket - Evil Urges

4) The Raconteurs - Consolers of the Lonely

5) Stephen Malkmus & the Jicks - Real Emotional Trash

6) Beck - Modern Guilt

7) TV on the Radio - Dear Science

8) Bun B - II Trill

9) Ice Cube - Raw Footage

10) Kings of Leon - Only By The Night

Honorable Mention:

Ryan Adams & The Cardinals - Cardinology

The Black Keys - Attack & Release

Mudcrutch - Mudcrutch

The Black Crowes - Warpaint

Three 6 Mafia - Last 2 Walk

Okkervil River - The Stand-Ins

The Dandy Warhols - ...Earth to the Dandy Warhols

Last Show of 2008

2008-12-19T23:55:00.000-08:00

Welcome Luther Dickinson, to the Black Crowes. The north mississippi all star adds another dimension to their already soulful sound. At times I felt like I was at an Allman Bros show, just hit after hit of southern syrup. I was floored by the most rockin version of Girl from North Country I've ever heard (and the only). Easily in the top 5 best shows of 2008...

The Black Crowes

2008-12-19T23:48:00.000-08:00

The Fillmore - San Francisco, CA

Cursed Diamond
Horsehead
Goodbye Daughters Of The Revolution
Hotel Illness
Comin' Home
Under A Mountain
Jam -> Bring On, Bring On
Girl From A Pawnshop
Girl From The North Country (dylan)
Good Friday
Title Song
Bewildered
Soul Singin
Hard To Handle -> Jam
Wounded Bird

encore:
God's Got It (w/ Bush drum)
Can't You Hear Me Knocking (stones)

Mercury Rev

2008-12-18T23:38:00.000-08:00

The Independent - San Francisco, CA

The only people I know who would've appreciated this show as much as me are Brian, Shawn and Jeff. An epic night of oldies and a few new ones...

CSS

2008-12-12T23:12:00.000-08:00

Bimbos 365 Club - San Francisco, CA

Cardinals

2008-12-04T07:25:00.001-08:00

Ryan Adams & the Cardinals

2008-12-03T00:55:00.000-08:00

Oracle Arena - Oakland, CA

Cobwebs
Crossed Out Name
Everybody Knows
Fix It
When the Stars Go Blue
Let It Ride
Go Easy
Come Pick Me Up
Two
Sink Ships
I Taught Myself How to Grow Old
Magick

Oh yeah, Oasis played too. A decent version of Wonderwall but couldn't really compare to Ryan's version. The 30 minute encore included Champagne Supernova and finished with I am the Walrus

M83

2008-11-28T21:34:00.000-08:00

The Fillmore - San Francisco, CA
No posters once again
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Deerhunter

2008-11-24T08:02:00.000-08:00

Great American Music Hall - San Francisco, CA

Oh man that was good. Light years better than the 12 Galaxies show. The sound was loud and dense and the new songs from Microcastle were even better live than I imagined. Lots of zoning out took place and I couldn't stop smiling from the sounds that were coming out of their instruments. So many sounds. Times New Viking (hailing from my hometown Columbus) were surprisingly great as well. Finally an opener that makes sense. That little tease of a second encore was a mean trick though...

Setlist went something like this (but not exactly):
Intro
Cryptograms
White Ink
Lake Somerset
Little Kids
Like New
Nothing Ever Happened
Vox Celeste
Cover me
Agoraphobia
Hazel St
Dr Glass
Octet
Saved By Old Times
Never Stops
Calvary Scars II
Microcastle