Art Kritics

This was the third time I've seen this wonderful band in the last 4 years, and they never disappoint (but read on). This concert, they celebrated the 20th anniversary of their "1977" album, so it was nice hearing tunes they hadn't performed in the previous shows I saw them at (both also in Brooklyn). They have a nice warm rapport with the audience; we 'get' them and they 'get' us. It's all great. My lone (but significant) disappointment: Each time I've seen them, as wonderful a bassist (and entertaining as always) as Mark Hamilton is, for whatever reason they always amp up his parts so loud that you literally can't hear Tim Wheeler's vocals much of the time. I gather that's intentional; not sure why. One possibility may be that each time I've seen them, I've stood right up front; perhaps Tim's vocals fly right over my ears? Not sure - would love to read other reviewers if they choose to respond to my one (I don't even want to use this word, but ...) complaint.

I am feeling awfully lucky to have caught this "future stadium-act" at such a small venue. The Mercury Lounge is such a cozy little spot, and the drink prices are reasonable for NYC. The opening act, Big Scary, from Australia were a pleasant surprise. A two-piece band, walking "the songlines" in the footsteps of The White Stripes, Big Scary displayed tons of versatility in their stylings, an eclectic mix of guitar, synth, and aggressive drumming. I enjoyed their set more than I originally expected, as they built up to a nice crescendo. Then the lights went down, "London Calling" blasted over the loud speakers and you could feel the crowd buzzing with anticipation. TRIBES band members: Johnny Lloyd (Lead Vocals, Guitar), Jim Cratchley (Bassist, Backing Vocals), Dan White ( Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals), and Miguel Demelo (Drums) jumped on stage and immediately wen full force into their set. Dan and Johnny sincerely professed their love for New York and the crowd responded, mirroring their enthusiasm. They thanked the audience for their support many times during the show, even pointing out some faces they recognized from their previous show. After the show, the fellas from TRIBES, joined the crowd at the bar. I had a chance to meet and talk with Johnny, Dan and Miguel. They were all so gracious, humble, and friendly. They each thanked me for coming and supporting and seemed genuinely interested in who I was as well. I got a chance to tell them personally, that I think they are going to BLOW UP stateside and they were extremely modest in their retort, seemingly doubtful. I even got to take pics with Johnny and Dan. They also told me that they would be BACK in NYC in JUNE, likely at the BOWERY BALLROOM. I told them they could count on me being there, AND YOU SHOULD BE TOO ! Trust me when I say TRIBES WILL BE HUGE! and SOON ! (I am never wrong about these things) Having recently signed with Island Records (who incidentally sign all of my favorite bands), and hitting #10 on the UK charts (why are those brits always way ahead of american listeners?) . I expect a meteoric rise similar to Kings of Leon.

Their performance was better than expected. Their sound was engaing. Their contenet was deep. And they rocked!!!

I've been a Stranglers fan since 1977, and have peripherally followed Hugh since he split from the group back in 1990. While his solo stuff is extremely respectable - akin to John Mellencamp or "better" - it is The Stranglers which gets my blood flowing. Hugh did a great job of mixing his own stuff (Hooverdam is an excellent album) with his Stranglers stuff. There were two "acts" - the first act was Hugh's solo stuff interspersed with Stranglers. The second act was Rattus Norvegicus (the "Peaches" album) in its entirety. Sometimes, Hanging Around, Get a Grip, Ugly... he performed every song with absolute high energy, and his band was absolutely rock solid, if not exceptional. (The drummer was from Blondie). GREAT night of live music with an old friend. Highly recommend it if you have even the slightest interest.

Noel Gallagher is a first-rate songwriter - responsible for all of the classic OASIS material. On his tour for his second solo album (released under the "Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds" moniker), he drew from both solo releases as well as some Oasis classics and B-Sides. His band was tight and the audience was on its feet throughout the entire show.

Still rocking hard with an incredible voice. He was so good we went to the next show at another venue. Aura was a cool small venue.

Flex is my favorite DJ but I think due the length of the concert, the turnout was low. O.T. Genasis, Busta, & Flex came thru but did nothing which was unexpected. Things happen...still had a great time and the DJ was good

Tobin Sprout is so much more than that other guy in Guided by Voices. Great songs, tasteful guitar playing, fine tenor voice. It's been way too long since he toured. excellent new album too.

Great Show, amazing set...old and new...new drummer is phenomenal. The entire band was the best I've ever seen them!

Great venue for an outstanding band. The band was great at getting the audience dancing and having a good time. They played a solid 2+ hours. Absolutely love this show.