First/Last-The Belle Brigade

The Belle Brigade

Mr. Smalls Funhouse

Thursday, April 18, 2012

Millvale

The Belle Brigade are playing Pittsburgh tomorrow night! They are opening for Good Old War, along with Family of the Year at Smalls. Tickets can be scored here. I have been waiting very patiently for siblings Ethan and Barbara Gruska to play Pittsburgh ever since discovering their wonderful music through their debut album released almost exactly one year ago. The album ended up being one of my absolute favorites of 2011 and my sorry attempts at getting them for an interview has finally payed off as I am thrilled that they have took some time to participate in this edition of First/Last!

The first album you ever bought?
Barbara Gruska: Salt N Pepa "Very Necessary".
Ethan Gruska: Stevie Wonder compilation.

Your last album bought?
Barbara: B 52s "Cosmic Thing".
Ethan: St Vincent "Strange Mercy".

Favorite album of all time?
Barbara: Joni Mitchell "Court and Spark"/"Hejira".
Ethan: always changing...

Least favorite/most disappointing album? 
Barbara/Ethan: Raffi.

First concert attended?
Barbara: Michael Jackson ‘Bad’ tour.
Ethan: Rolling Stones.

Last concert?
Barbara/Ethan: Of Montreal.

Favorite concert ever?
Barbara/Ethan: Sleepy Time Gorilla Museum.

Least favorite concert?
Barbara/Ethan: Disney on Ice.

Any thoughts, experiences about Pittsburgh?
Barbara/Ethan: Sandwiches with french fries on them!!!! Yeah!!!!

Thanks so much Ethan and Barbara. I see hundreds of bands in a year and I am so looking forward to your set. I am afraid if you guys actually play 'Shirt', I might get all giddy like a stupid fanboy could!