Time to catch up!
Sufjan Stevens – “No Shade in the Shadow of the Cross”
First off: New Sufjan harkens back to his folky, stripped-down roots. Harmonies galore.
G – “Outer Space”
Chill vibes from this electronica project by G (producer Jimmy Giannopoulos). Throw in a sax and I’m sold.
Will Joseph Cook – “Streets of Paris”
A voice like Brett Dennen and an upbeat chorus like Penguin Prison and Ra Ra Riot.
Venue: The Mercury Lounge
Date: 2/11/2015
Rating: 3.0/5
Playing for a small venue takes chutzpah, especially when you are the late night act on a weekday night. After opening act Prinze George, a crowd of 100 slowly disintegrated into a meager 30. But 30 was just enough for AYER to start a dance party. With a minimal 8 song set-list, AYER slowly revved up the intensity level, making sure his last songs got everyone moving. I was most pleasantly surprised Ayer’s airy falsetto. It sounded as strong if not stronger than his regular voice; however, since most of the melodies are in that upper register, his lyrics sometimes get washed out. During the crowd favorite, “Circles,” the band truly came together. The drummer freely handled the entire kit as well the backup singer had her fair share of solos. I’d recommend Ayer for anyone who likes groups such as Chvrches, Saint Motel, or Great Good Fine Ok. In summary, Ayer has potential, but as with any new act, there is always room for improvement.
Brooklyn Trio mixes the dynamics of James Blake, Nick Hakim and Bon Iver in this soulful, crisp, gospel ballad. Tasteful bass licks and sharp staccato drums compliment but do not overpower the lead singer’s crooning. Enjoy.
Warm & fuzzy, mellow, minimalistic and atmospheric. New song from a relatively unknown, 23-year-old London Producer “Catching Flies” sounds like a mix between Broke for Free and Apparat.
The song is a little old, (circa 2010), but still sounds brand new. With this track from Youandewan, I hear the electronic stability of Bonobo, Chick Corea-like piano trills, and the subtle house of Duke Dumont. I could see this in a scene from Ocean’s Fourteen.
Sometimes you need a moment to let go.
Australian record company “Future Classic” is breaking the electronic mold once again. Here is the newest original single from up-and-coming, Australian producer Basenji.
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