How many genres of music can the New York band Benzos combine into 1 show? These guys take guitar rock and create ambient soundscapes layered with dance music and experimental electronic beats. They created these expansive soundscapes that went from dreamy swells into intense explosions. Although their formula of starting slow and getting fast got tiring, I really enjoyed them as an opening act.
Nine Black Alps from the UK has started to build some momentum in the states. Their album “Everything Is” boasts a big rock sound and they amplify it more live. They were quite intense on stage and pulled off every song flawlessly. They have a sound that reminds me of Nirvana but with a modern bitter bleakness. Impressive guitarmanship (including the bassist breaking his guitar in front of me after he broke a string). The show was full of fans and is definitely a band to watch out for.
Links:
http://www.benzosmusic.com/
http://www.nineblackalps.com/