By: Emily Dantuma
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View of the MMAA Patio - Photo from the MMAA website
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Allow me to begin by setting the scene. The Minnesota Museum of American Art’s summer music series “Patio Nights” could be the coolest venue for music appreciation in the Twin Cities, sure to become (and has already for Maggie of Digitata) a favorite amongst musicians that perform locally. A rooftop patio, overlooking the Mississippi and nestled among peeling bricks and office windows, offers a very intimate and grand atmosphere. When all ages venues are few and far between, the MMAA takes it to the max by also offering a cash bar for the 21+ portion of the crowd.
Mystery Palace played first. The trio of accomplished players has developed a sound that is soothing and gentle, without coming off as wimpy. I would enjoy having their CD for a road trip. Ryan Olcott’s airy vocal and synth styles are well supported by the rhythm section, and drummer Joey Van Phillips made quite an impression with his crisp and consistent playing, showing equal skill with both brushes and sticks. I was especially fond of his ability to change timbre with ease and precision. James Buckley provided some surprisingly funky bass lines, adding nice movement to the songs, and his bass tone was clear and warm. The band played together well, executing subtle dynamic changes smoothly. I liked these guys, they’re dreamy. During the set a small child broke up the mesmerized audience by busting some serious dance moves, though I do think he made most of the rest us a bit jealous with his lack of restraint.
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Digitata - Photo from their MySpace page
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With the sun set it was time for Digitata to play. I have seen this band play many times, and they are one of my favorites around town. The trio is Maggie Morrison on vocals and Wurlitze; Ryan Olson, who provides samples and magic; and Drew Christopherson on drums. They kicked off their set with a newer tune, “Banging Jessica Alba,” which is also currently available on their MySpace page. Ryan seemed to be getting the hang of new vocal delay effects, adding another element to Maggie’s already versatile voice. This was a night of some serious musical skills and, as always, Digitata is raising the bar. Drew’s drumming expertise was intimidating; I heard people exclaim, “He sounds like a drum machine!” His cymbal grabs put other drummers to shame.
On another new song, “2 Daggers,” Maggie’s defiant and soulful wail was right on. I like the yin and yang of her voice with its fullness, and her Wurlitzer with its mellow, laid back sound. Ryan’s ability to make a dance beat for kids who are way too cool to listen to a dance beat is a large part of what makes Digitata so great. Their CD Sexually Transmitted Emotions is available from Totally Gross National Product and we all wait with bated breath for their new CD, which will hopefully be out this fall. Digitata will be playing again with openers Mystery Palace at the Uptown Bar on June 16.
Location Info:
Minnesota Museum of American Art
Artist Info: Digitata, Mystery Palace
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