It’s already been a fine week for gigs so far, with neo-classical being the order of things until now (reviews for A Winged Victory for the Sullen and Max Richter coming soon!), but it’s time to swap bowed instruments for guitars, and a bit of brass, with the weekend choices.
5) The Budos Band at Brooklyn Bowl
Daptone Records’ The Budos Band returned last year with Burnt Offering, their first record in four years, the album captures their funk roots but adds some trippier, darker tones to their sound. It’s a fine marriage and Brooklyn Bowl will be grooving in a sea of bass and brass. Friday and Saturday (doors 6pm, show 9pm)
4) Wand, Babes, Scully at Baby’s All Right
LA band Wand are signed to Ty Segall’s God? label on Drag City, as you might guess from that information alone, they play loud garage psyche and do it incredibly well. Support comes from New Orleans’ Babes, who play scuzzy and whacky nuggets-inspired tunes. Locals Scully make it a winning trio so turn up early, Saturday 8pm. Wand also play at Mercury Lounge on Sunday at 7pm with support from Honey.
3) Big Quiet, Hamish Kilgour, Scupper, Journalism at Pet Rescue
This is a record release show for Big Quiet’s self-titled debut album, which was recorded by Mitch Easter (R.E.M., Pavement, etc) and there are definite nods to his discography as you can well imagine, with a healthy dose of classic Postcards Records-esque jangle for good measure. Don’t miss The Clean‘s Hamish Kilgour as well. Rounding off the bill are Scupper and local favourites, Journalism. Saturday 8pm
2) Deerhoof, Perfect Pussy, Zula at the Marlin Room, Webster Hall
Deerhoof are promoting their latest excellent album, La Isla Bonita, from last year. Although the group have released a whopping 13 albums in 17 years, I still think of them as a new band, which can only be put down to always pushing themselves coupled with a strong work ethic. It’ll be interesting to see them follow Perfect Pussy’s no doubt blistering set, while Zula’s trippy synth pieces make for a perfectly rounded lineup where no band will sound remotely close to each other. Saturday 7:30pm (SOLD OUT)
1) Swervedriver, Gateway Drugs at Music Hall of Williamsburg
One of Oxford’s finest ever exports, I’ve given up keeping up how many bands are described as Swervedriver-esque, and they have just released their first album since 1998! I Wasn’t Born to Lose You features all the Swervedriver trademarks, crashing guitars that sore with great melodies underneath. I can’t wait to see a little bit of home come my way. Support comes from psyche-pop band Gateway Drugs, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the tunes from their debut album Magick Spells, that I’ve heard so far. Friday 8pm (SOLD OUT), Also playing 3/30 at Mercury Lounge (SOLD OUT) and 3/31 at Saint Vitus (tickets available at time of writing)
