Boris – 8

Hey lady! Oh, sorry.

As I said a few days ago, I had the distinct pleasure of seeing Japanese rock heroes Boris play live in Chicago at the famed Metro. They blew our minds for who knows how long in ways only Boris can. There’s nothing quite like them. I don’t think they can do anything wrong. They can be all over the map but generally one would say some of their finest work is when they’re at their heaviest.

However this song, 8, sounds like the beginning of an anime show. I’ve heard Boris actually wrote some music for anime at some point. I wouldn’t know since I’ve never really watched it but good on them.

Anyhow, keep your wits as you get through the first part of the song. Do not adjust your speakers. The lo-fi intro lulls you into a false sense of security until the song really gets going. Eventually it builds toward a fantastic solo that makes you want to get in your car and drive into a Speed Racer cartoon. It rules. Enjoy.

Russian Circles – Geneva

Last Friday night I had the great pleasure of seeing Russian Circles at the Metro. They were wonderfully loud and explosive – a band that if you liked on record you would absolutely love in person. There are a lot of bands that are built on studio magic and production techniques but not Russian Circles. They were meant to play live music and they’re damn good at it.

Here’s a song they used to close out their set. It’s called Geneva. Try not to blow your load at around the two minute mark.

Brian Jonestown Massacre @ The Metro 3/28/2009

Saturday night was my first time having the distinct pleasure of seeing the Brian Jonestown Massacre live and the wait was more than worth it. Everyone familiar with the Anton Newcombe-led group knows the stories. We’ve all ended more than a few drunken nights by popping DiG! into the DVD player to watch Anton duke it out with fans and band members alike. Despite all of these things, all that matters to most of us is the music. Anton’s music is undeniably excellent.

So finally, when the announcement was made that they were coming to Chicago, I bought my ticket immediately. It was a typical spring night in my hometown; that is to say it was about 35 degrees and raining. I arrived in time to see the opening band, Flavor Crystals, leave the stage.