Jay Farrar performs an Uncle Tupelo classic "Still Be Around" at the Majestic Theatre in Madison. The seated intimate setting complemented Farrar's set list that spanned his career from Uncle Tupelo and Son Volt to the latest Benjamin Gibbard collaboration. Bobby Bare Jr. opened the show and those in attendance experienced a magical evening that will be permanently etched into our psyche.
Fang Island played for the third time this year in Madison to a large enthusiastic crowd at the High Noon Saloon hell bent on spreading the band's three prong guitar attack among the uninitiated. The Brooklyn-based quintet we’re genuinely excited to be in Madison and have been touring for almost a year behind their breakthrough self-titled debut album.
After ten years leading Detroit garage rockers the Von Bondies, guitarist Jason Stollsteimer saw an opportunity to move in a completely different direction with his new band The Hounds Below.
“I’m very proud of what I did with the Von Bondies, said Jason. “But this is what I’m doing now.”
Over the last four months Julian Lynch has received accolades from the indie music blogosphere for his ethereal work. Pitchfork gave his latest album “Mare” 8.5 out of 10 on their infamous rating scale, praising Julian’s creative growth from his previous release. And just when you think it couldn't get any better, Stereogum listed Julian Lynch along with former Madison resident, Nika Roza Danilova (aka Zola Jesus), as the best new artists of 2010.
Lynch is already talking about releasing a third album called “Terra” in the coming months and has planned a listening party at The Project Lodge in Madison for fans to preview his latest work. As someone who is helping put a national spotlight on the Madison indie music scene, we wanted to check in with Julian and find out more about this listening party and what it’s like to suddenly be buzz-worthy.
Julian Lynch (photo by Erez Avissar)
The Thermals seared their way into the Annex in Madison with Cymbals Eat Guitars and Sleeping in the Aviary in tow. The raucous crowd was ready for a high energy Saturday night.
Blitzen Trapper, the Portland-based experimental indie folk rockers, returned to the High Noon Saloon with Pearly Gate Music. Building on a sixties/seventies vibe, Blitzen Trapper has successfully carved out a unique sound over several albums that transcends their classic rock influences.
Lead guitarist/vocalist Eric Earley’s intricate lyrics explore the dark psychological side of human nature through songs like “Black River Killer” and “The Man Who Would Speak True.” Both of these songs touch on themes surrounding murder and serial killers in a soft acoustic ambiance that drives the message home. Other material is more uplifting with rock-fused rhythms and complex harmonies.
Eric Earley of Blitzen Trapper
