This past weekend I retreated indoors away from the bombarding tourists. It was a wise decision as I am afraid of traffic. I accomplished taking the best naps while drinking hoards of hot tea. It was a most delightful and quiet weekend. With that said, I am in need of live music and can only see happiness in the form of two solid DC bands and an out-of-town goddess.
Friday, January 25th: Miyazaki at DC9 | Miyazaki is not just a Japanese manga artist and actor, but it’s also a local band who describes themselves as “gloomy-spirit house, loud beat, rain dance-synth pop.” They recently released their first full-length album, Color of Glass, a strong debut for a new band. Although the quartet does not list New Order as an influence, it is undeniable that Eduardo Rodela harkens toward a deeper sounding Bernard Sumner. Marisa Grotte adds to Rodela’s unique vocals to form a captivating combination.
While Miyazaki bring a dose of the old familiar, it is a sound we could use more of in the city. Spend your Friday night celebrating their album release at the intimate DC9.
Saturday, January 26th: Young Rapids at Paperhaus – FREE | Much like an actual rapid, the band, Young Rapids, will increase your heart rate and add that needed turbulence to your feet at their live show. The local quartet is made up of childhood friends, Dan Gleason, Joe Bentley, Nick Martin, and Collin Kelly – each unique in their own character, but together a force of musical intelligence. Their onstage arrangement places the rambunctious multi-instrumentalist Joe, at the center, while main vocalist Dan is tucked on the side, a nod to their unpretentious character.
Young Rapids released Day Light Savings in August of 2012, a strikingly solid record for any band’s first full length. The unexpected and vast arrangements alongside the honest lyrics showcase maturity that most bands strive for well into their musical career. Catch this meticulously hardworking band before they hit the long tour road. Get to know them better by checking out the interview we had with them last year.
Jump in the Young Rapids, I promise you’ll drown in delight. A special treat in an intimate setting for your Saturday night!
Sunday, January 27th: Chelsea Wolfe at Rock and Roll Hotel | Sargent House artist Chelsea Wolfe released her third full length album, Unknown Rooms: A Collection of Acoustic Songs last year. Chelsea performs with Ben Chisholm (synth) and Andrea Calderon (violin), creating a hauntingly beautiful experience. Her photographed appearance is one of a dark, intense character, but her music is far from her mischievous online persona. “Whether stripped bare or fully backed, Wolfe carries a serious heaviness of sound offset by that ever-present counterweight: transcendence of spirit.”
End your weekend with the gift Chelsea brings to the District. I hear she has ended her sets with a cover of Sibylle Baier’s “The End” (one of my favorite little known wonders).
Don’t forget to hit up the DC Record Fair this Sunday–a one stop shop for all you vinyl freaks!
Stay warm with good music and get out DC, you music freaks!
