September 19th, 2012
Next Week’s A Big Week At Union Transfer
Starting on Monday night, things get crazy on Spring Garden. Seriously, it’s like a wham bam, thank you, ma’am of indie rock.
First, it’s Wild Nothing. Whose stunning Nocturne is on heavy rotation with folks who have good ears. Jack Tatum’s dream pop act should be an amazing set live. And as if that weren’t enough. Zachary Cole Smith’s Brooklyn band, DIIV, will open the show up. HOLY CRAP. That’s a lot of great indie rock in one night. We wouldn’t get there any later than 9pm, friends. Don’t miss a minute of these two sets. Tickets are on sale for $15 American dollars. Get em’!
Then, like we tell you in the paper, you should probably be at this Twin Shadow show, too. It’s Tuesday. And the opener is, perhaps, just as exciting if not more. Niki & The Dove gave us one of the most brilliant electropop records of the year with Instinct.
Twin Shadow
There’s a widespread infatuation with the past in much of modern music, particularly the ‘80s. And while this might be worrisome (read Simon Reynolds’ excellent Retromania for a detailed look at this subject), when something’s truly great, it’s timeless, be it pop music or any art form. Regardless of what vintage equipment is used or how much Spandau Ballet DNA it’s mixed with, a good song is always going to be a good song; this is where George Lewis Jr., the one-man band behind Twin Shadow, resides. After fronting the punky Mad Man Films and releasing a bluesy solo album under his real name, Lewis began work as Twin Shadow, writing and performing the debut album Forget on his own. There was clearly a debt to Prince, the Smiths and many other Reagan era influences, but you can’t fake good hooks. The record appeared on many of 2010’s best-of lists, and this year’s follow-up Confess looks to do the same. -Bryan Bierman
8:30pm. $15. With Niki & The Dove. Union Transfer, 1026 Spring Garden St. 215.232.2100. utphilly.com
And then rounding out a most bangin’ week is Grimes. The weird little spirit nymph on 4AD was in Philly not too long ago at the Church and, to be honest, didn’t exactly bowl Philadelphia over. Her sound wasn’t good and she didn’t really bring it. Rumor has it she’s revamped her tour presence and should be putting on a much more legit live show than last time. Have you seen the video for “Genesis” yet? It. is. incredible.
