Category: Music

Although I’m not that crazy about Regina‘s new album Far, there are a few beautiful gems that warrant a listen. I am both happy and a bit surprised that Regina sold out RCMH. It’s pretty incredible how big she has gotten. She was very happy to be playing New York and was clearly humbled by the experience of playing such a grand venue. She started off with many of her news songs with several of her older songs placed throughout. From start to finish, it was a perfect show. She sang beautifully and played the piano, electronic keys and guitar flawlessly. She really surprised me with what may be the best show of the year.

I’ve haven’t had a good live experience with Owen for awhile. After a brief avoidance I hoped for a good set from the Chicago native. Luckily he was in a decent mood at the small venue and brought out a decent crowd. He played a great set of old and new songs. I’ve always loved his simple heartfelt songs so hearing them live without him throwing a tantrum or dealing with a crappy sound was a treat.

Owen site.

The Grates played their final show of their 3 night residency at Piano’s to a very Australian crowd. After talking to a few of the Brisbane locals, I found out that the band usually sells out very large venues back home and they were shocked to see the band play such a small venue. It was even one fan’s first time at their show as she’s never been able to get a ticket down under. After a few songs into their set you know why this band could wield the attention of any sized crowd. Patience is a fireball onstage and is an ideal front woman for the catchy and fun songs they play. She has an incredible voice and the songs from the trio are tight despite the slight monotony within them. Regardless, the band is meant to be seen live and they do a great job making you feel like you’re part of the show and invite you to tap into the energy of the band. And hell, maybe she’ll even hug you after the show. : )

The whole evening was heavy with the impending rain that was sure to come as well as the anticipation of one of the most influential bands playing live. Superchunk came out and played an incredible set of songs from their 2 decades together and gained intensity as the night wore on. The band had great energy onstage and brought out a great crowd of old and new. I especially liked their introduction of some of their similar songs as “smears”  and of course the encore of “Slack Motherfucker” which they also played at McCarren Park.