By: Karla Ludzack
Grumpy’s really outdid themselves with this year’s Art-A-Whirl party in terms of diversity, performance art, and overall coolness. I think this was the first year they had charged for the music, but $3.00 is quite a bargain for the opportunity to see at least seven bands (I lost count after awhile).
I’ve always loved Grumpy’s NE because there is always something going on in the summer. As usual, they did not disappoint. First up was the always entertaining Arctic Universe. We arrived in the middle of his set, and he was already surrounded by a crowd. From what I understand, he had two young children mesmerized by his quirky love songs and perfect hair.
The New Vintage were up next. Unfortunately, Mike Nicolai has moved to Kansas City and is no longer with the band, so we had a three piece with Grant Johnson, Tony Zaccardi, and Ben Hayter. It still rocked. The variety and range of musical talent from Grant Johnson never ceases to amaze me. Think of what would happen if The Minutemen and Ol’ Yeller had a son – and that pretty much sums up the sound. I understand that Johnson has found a new guitarist who will be playing his first show with The New Vintage next Saturday (May 27th) at The Entry.
Ear Candy were next on the bill. They were fun, and if silly synthy-pop is your thing, you’ll like it. And the choreography and costumes are brilliant. I know my pictures cannot possibly do those ladies justice. I didn’t appreciate the hecklers very much, and though they did give the band a hundred dollar bill, I still don’t think it is okay to buy disrespect. There are a lot of different art forms in Minneapolis, and if that isn’t what you are there to appreciate, please stay home next year.
There was a set by Vas somewhere in the day, so I can’t remember if that was next or if it was The Seawhores. Anyway, my next experience up front taking pictures was during The Seawhores, so we’ll just skip to that. I think it was one long instrumental song, although someone later told me it was three songs. I don’t remember any breaks, but amazing guitar work anyway. Arctic Universe can also play a mean bass. Like I said, there really was something for everyone at Grumpy’s NE.
Next in the lineup was Mach FoX. He also played last year’s Art-A-Whirl gig, but he was solo last year. This year he has a whole band, back-up singers, and all. The art has reached a new level, but is still familiar enough so as not to alienate the old fans.
We saw Koalas next, and that was the last band of the daytime shows for us. It is great to see Lori Barbero on drums again. The band is a little dark and dramatic for me, but Rita Puskas' voice and stage presence are definitely worth checking out if drama is your thing.
The whole day reminded me of SXSW. Being at Grumpy’s NE was a lot like being at a SXSW day party. Definitely the best day I have had all week.
Location Info:
Grumpy's Northeast
Artist Info: Ear Candy, Koalas, Mach FoX, The New Vintage, The Seawhores
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