Nik Westman is all kinds of awesome. His band, which seems to change up in members for every gig, sounded too sweet in the semi-acoustic version this night. I cannot wait to hear his CD, which will be released exactly one week from now at The Thunderbird. Be there doodz! I will.
This was such a fun time. I had the pleasure of getting their record early (thanks guys!). The songs are funny, endearing and most importantly, really good. The show, in turn, was exactly the same. Two extremely nice people having a ball onstage. Long live The Wreckids! Here's a nice write-up about the new release.
I rarely go see a band without ever hearing of them or their music, unless it's an opener. This was exactly the case on this day but hey, it's quick and free so no harm no foul if they stink, right? They didn't stink and although I wasn't running out to get their entire catalog, I did get to see a guy simultaneously play the bass and trumpet! Nice. Judge for yourself how good they were by listening to the set here. More photos here.
The Harlan Twins are synonymous with Bloomfield. It was great to finally see them play Howler's. When this band is in their element (which it seems to be any place performing live) they cannot be beat for good times rock and roll fun.
Continuing the tradition of performing with an ever-evolving line-up, the band's set consisted of the two mainstays in the group. Hallie and Susanna sounded just perfect as a duo. Spare, low-key, beautiful renditions of the tunes. I tried to find an archived podcast of the broadcast on YEP's site with no luck. For some reason I don't think they have any of the Souper Bowls available to listen. More photos here.
This was my fourth 'Souper Bowl' in a row. It was looking rather grim if I would make it at all, being the day after Pittsburgh gets dumped on with 21" of snow. Crazy! My trusty Subaru AWD and new tires took care of that. I am so glad I was able to get there because I FINALLY saw MOIP play an acoustic set, which was just incredible. Among new songs and 'hits', we were treated to an amazing cover of Lohio's 'We'll Hide Ourselves Underneath' which is a front runner to be my favorite live moment of the year. That is until I see Greg play it. Seriously, just beautiful. The boys are working on releasing an EP this summer and I should have some shots of the upcoming recording session, that's if the guys can get it together and get those tuxedos! Boca Chica and Ernie Hawkins photos will be posted soon.
My girl Ruth was also in attendance and gave me a few pics of yours truly in action. She is a wonderful local photographer and I encourage you to visit her site.
Doug Keith is a singer-songwriter who is starting his tour in Pittsburgh on Wednesday February 10, 2010 at Howler's Coyote Cafe in Bloomfield. Also on the bill are Andru Bemus, Kevin Finn & Spinster.
I have a pair of will call tickets to giveaway for the show but keep in mind you should definitely contact Howler's on Wednesday to see if it is cancelled or not due to weather.
If you are interested, email me at manhugh1@comcast.net.
You can listen to the title track of his latest album.
"Doug Keith weaves truths into understatedly eloquent songs, which he delivers with a weathered, expressive voice, nimble, blues-rooted guitar work and organically layered arrangements that effortlessly convey the emotional immediacy of his compositions."
Mariage Blanc Studio Space Sunday January 24, 2010 Pittsburgh, PA
I had the pleasure of shooting these images while the band was beginning to record new music. It is so interesting to see how musicians work out material as a group. The dynamics are fascinating to me. A personal thanks to the fellas for allowing me to hang. More photos here.
Nik Westman & The Central Plains
