The weekend began with all sorts of good things. Not only were Ravens tickets put in front of me but then I received the news that a certain monkey will be staying with us here in Baltimore until August. I’m looking forward to spending more time with this unique creature and learning all of it’s ways. A certain level of celebration was in order and was provided by one of my favorite bands of the moment, ‘Nurses’. The monkey and I recruited a couple friends and made them aware of our need to celebrate. They too had apparently received news warranting good times in the form of celebration.
‘Nurses’ is an experimental psych band currently touring their debut release, “Apple’s Acre”. I have been listening to them for the past couple of months and have been intrigued to say the least. You may be able to hear some influences amongst the blanket of sound created by these three young men, but, ‘Nurses’ are undeniably doing something new and refreshing. The band is made up of childhood friends Aaron Chapman and John Bowers who started developing their sound in Iowa Falls, Iowa in 2006. They had brief stints in both Southern California and then Chicago. Their path then lead them to a dusty old attic in Portland, Oregon where they would meet their third member, drummer James Mitchell in late 2007. Up until spring of this year that is where they stayed finishing up “Apple’s Acre” which they are currently touring.
Nurses' debut album 'Apple's Acre' is in stores now! get it...now!
I have heard the album numerous times and thought there was no way they’d be able to capture the same sound live. They did. It was really great. I found myself singing along, clapping and dancing as if I were on stage with them. Although they were the opener their performance was that of any headliner I’ve seen in a long while. Highly entertaining and dramatic but because of the music and not their outfits, or lighting or even the surrounding crowd. They performed for the 20 people at Ottobar as if there were 2,000 and I am pleased to say that the lil’ monkey and I were there to enjoy.
Le Loup's new album 'Family' is out now. You should probably get it
‘Le Loup’ , whose album ‘Family’, was the cause for this event, could be categorized as…hmm… let’s say…freak, tribal, psyche folk for the beach and other whimsical adventures ( I must suggest that this may perhaps be more appropriate for beach nights and or overcast beach days). Certainly worth looking into if you’re not already aware. Their beginnings are very similar to those of our beloved di[e]ce. The band is made up not so much of a group of musicians as it is more of a collective of like minded artists and creators from all over the east coast. Sam Simkoff’s release from his paralegal gig was recording and playing with sounds between his computer a couple bells and whistles along side a banjo. Using the magic of the internet and ‘Craigslist’, Sam put together a group of internet peeps forming the band ‘Le Loup’ (The Wolf), and with the continued support from our local scene these local artists should be just fine (Sam,without the paralegal gig).
Blitzen Trapper was fun and you guys should know that already. If not, do some research. It will be fun. They are fun. Again, that lil monkey and I found ourselves at Otto and again found ourselves treating our ears like royalty by pleasing with the …hmm …always rocking steady while soaring to new heights electro-funk-country soul, Steely Dan’esque …at times, hitz of the Blitz! As I said before, it was fun…duh.
Blitzen Trapper's EP 'Black River Killer and album 'Furr' out now. get if don't got
Very appropriate for those who enjoy a versatile gauntlet of fun on a Saturday night.
The monkey and I left from Blitzen Trapper in a hurry. The show was great but we both knew what we had in store for us. We curled up on the couch and giggled about our next event with the same excitement of a couple of spoiled nine year old kids would have the night before Christmas. Sunday brings Ravens and Ravens bring smiles. This weekend I was fortunate enough to take my smile to the Ravens. That smile stayed with me pretty much all day until some weird confusion over winning and losing ball games went down. It soon returned at the Purple Patio. By the end of the day all was well in the life of Jay. I’m happy to have a fairly well behaved adventurous little monkey. I’m happy and pleased to be in a city where our music scene and the fine folks who enjoy it with me provide such a versatile and colorful array of experiences. Last but not least it is always great to see all my good ol’ friends at the ball game. However I like you all a little bit more after a win …and we all win when you come visit di[e]ce!
So until next time… I’ll leave you with this… RAVENS!
laters.
Jay
Speaking of Ravens… Raveonnette’s later in the week. Also come in for a copy of our new di[e]ce mix featuring all artists mentioned above. Including the Raves!!!
well done Mr. Lawson! More please.