By: Amber Schadewald
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| Minus the Bear - Publicity Photo |
All ages shows are like early bird specials, minus 40 years and potatoes. Sure the food tastes the same, but it just seems a bit off; like the cook, or in this case, the bands, just hadn’t been given a chance to get into the groove.
Seattle indie-rock/experimental band Minus the Bear played to a far-from-crowded Triple Rock Thursday evening, with an opening performance by their musical step-child, Chin Up Chin Up.
Chicago rockers Chin Up Chin Up played at six, started mellow and worked their way through their more exciting, syncopated, drum-driven numbers. The slow start didn’t help the stiff crowd, and a lack of eye contact, talking and any real interaction made it hard for the audience to make a connection to the performers.
Thankfully, near the end of their set, the boys in the band woke up from their naps and even cracked a few smiles. The play between fierce guitars, occasional electronic blips, chimey keyboards and vibrating bass echoed with influence from their tour friends, Minus the Bear.
The last song of Chin Up Chin Up’s set was by far the best, finally displaying some versatility and range possibilities in Jeremy Bolan’s usually gruff voice, along with his harmonica playing skills.
Minus the Bear took stage at seven and immediately threw off everyone’s dance steps with their out of control pace and time signature variations. A band you can’t predict, Minus the Bear is fabulous for letting your body loose, throwing out your pride and shaking your stuff off beat.
The conversation between instruments, electronically generated treats from the Mac and singable lyrics were rad live, but the audience still lacked in the enthusiasm department. Lead guitar and vocalist Jake Snider even commented on the quiet, far too well behaved crowd.
In contrast to their audience, the band gave 110 percent, showcasing minor details of musical genius from all perspectives. Minus the Bear’s songs contain incredible build ups, never leaving the audience with an audible let down. Snider’s voice seemed a bit strained at times, but for the most part it only added to the organic quality of their music.
The band played a few of their new tracks which will be released in August, along with favorites like “The Fix” and “fine + 2pts” from their previous four discs. A talented group of guys, Minus the Bear is hard rock with a soft gray t-shirt; a live show anyone could appreciate for its unique variety of sounds.
Location Info:
Triple Rock Social Club
Artist Info: Chin Up Chin Up, Minus the Bear
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