Sometimes it is hard to write honestly about your friends' bands, but I can honestly say that Jason Chu has the most beautiful voice I've ever heard. At one point I cried a little. It's true. He strums simply on his acoustic guitar and sings earnestly, without wavering. I would recommend seeing him perform if you ever get a chance. Here is a video to hold you over in the meanwhile:
Between sets I enjoyed the DJ set by TJ Lazerphone of Low Red Center. He had some sort of magical electronic vacuum contraption to add disco laser sounds over lo-fi tape recordings. I also ventured to Mohawk's lovely new upstairs balcony. I think they are plotting to take over Red River, with all their additions and the recent alliance with Club de Ville.
I couldn't stay for the final act, Peter & the Wolf, due to a government test I had to fail on Monday, I did get to see Reverse X-Rays for the first time. Reverse X-Rays make jazzy, psychedelic art-rock sounds with minimal vocals and frenetic guitars. First of all, I was very impressed by their dress; they looked like they were about to attend a family reunion. The songs I heard were enjoyable and their sound is a lot more interesting than most bands that have been formed in Austin recently. My main recommendation for Reverse X-Rays would be to art it up a little more. The use of single-note gang vocals (I just learned that term the other day - think Dirty Projectors) became a little repetitive; though I enjoyed it on the first song, it wasn't surprising after the second and third, and there was no other singing to set it off.
With so many role models around, it's easy to start a mediocre indie rock band these days. But to make music with a unique sound and impressive instrumentation is more of a challenge. I think Reverse X-Rays will only get better and I look forward to seeing where they take their music.
Post new comment