Fountains of Wayne

Soul Asylum opening act was why I really went . i didn't care too much for the other band. The sound was off IMO.

It was a rockin acoustic show. Adam played the grand piano. Songs ranged from new ones to a jazz version of Stacy's Mom. If you get a chance - go see them.

They have the greatest lyrics, and just play on and on with virtually no talking.

I love Fountains of Wayne. I love their song craftsmanship, their sense of humor. I saw them a year or so ago on their "acoustic" tour and enjoyed the show very much. I was looking forward to seeing them "plugged" this time out. For the most part, the show did not disappoint. But Chris Collingwood's electric guitar was mixed way too loud, drowning out harmonies and even Jodi's lead fills, at times. They reminded me of the Ramones, shouting lyrics over a din of buzz-saw guitars. When Chris switched to acoustic guitar, those problems disappeared; the songs were allowed to "breathe" a bit, and the band's sens of humor and craftsmanship shone through. Turn it down, Chris!

Awesome show by the Fountains of Wayne - the Birchmere is a perfect venue, and the band played an amazing show!

I usually don't like opening acts, but Jill Sobule was a true exception. She performed alone telling wonderful stories with a crystal clear voice. Between songs, she made us laugh with witty asides and comments. Fountains of Wayne did all the hits, including my favorite "Bright Future in Sales," plus several new songs. They were super loud, but I was sitting right under the speakers, which I won't do again.

love their music however they overplayed their vocals. The amps were up so high, they were clipping (distorting) their vocals to try to stay above the music.

I've been a big fan of FOW since their first album and looked forward to this concert with great anticipation. Unfortunately, they succombed to the 'curse of the Birchmere', which is t hat loud electric music often sounds terrible. The acoustics are great for acoustic music and solo performers (JIll Sobule, the opening act, was wonderful), but just like Todd Rundgren (a favorite of mine since 1970) the sound was awful when they cranked up the volume. After the first half-hour, the sound did improve and it helped a bit to stand way in the back, but their charm was seriously compromised by the blarring and blurry acoustics.

One dose of 90 minutes or so seems to dispel gloom and negativity for at least 36 hours for everyone except maybe the band's drummer, who was solid as houses and about as expressionless. There's not a bad seat in the place. Especially for folks like me who are hard of seeing, it's a treat to watch musician's working at living room distance. some bands, and this is one, demand a kinetic response. The only thing better would be a modest amount of dancing room (off to the side so as not to impede view, prehaps.)

FoW was wonderful as always, energetic and fun. I am NOT a fan of the Birchmere; the atmosphere is like dinner theater of the 1950s. Fortunately, FoW was able to reach through that.

... to drink and it nearly ruined an otherwise good show. Unfortunately, the guy seems to have a real problem because I've seen the same thing several times before incoherent remarks, missed vocals, sitting down in mid-song, etc. When I see FOW, I almost always get the feeling that they've had a huge fight backstage just before coming on, and I can't help but wonder if it's a case of people who want to put on a professional show versus people who want to behave like bad-boy rockstars. Too bad, because when FOW is on, they're terrific. One last thought: the Birchmere is usually more careful about sound quality. This show was simply too loud.

After the opening act, we watched the roadies set up for Fountains of Wayne. Unfortunately, due to the torrential downpour, the power went out, making everybody wonder when/if the power would come back on and if Fountains of Wayne would even perform. Fortunately, the outage only lasted 5-10 minutes and, after re-checking the lighting and equipment, the show went on. FoW gave a great performance, with some great interactions with the audience and even a few lines from "Another Brick In The Wall."

Great show! Venue lended itself to the overall success of the show. FOW is always fun and we totally enjoyed them in this venue! Bring them back!

They played a bunch of their old hits (including a great lounge rendition of Stacy's Mom) and even played a few songs on their upcoming album. Even though it was an acoustic show they still rocked hard, and kicked ass. Overall it was a great gig, and even stuck around afterwards to sign autographs.

Fountains of Wayne has always been one of my favorite bands, and they played great. They sounded great, and appeared to be really cool guys. The only reason I give a 4-star rating is because it was pretty much half-empty in there, and the crowd was... well, let's just say everyone was way, way older than me. They were the most dead, unlively bunch I've ever seen at a show. They didn't dance or anything, sort of made me feel retarded whenever I danced around and acted like a fool all by myself. It just made the concert experience a little... awkward, I guess. Regardless, FoW was really good. I wasn't disappointed at all, I even got a guitar pick thrown at me as a souvenir! It was an acoustic show, but that didn't take away from any of their songs. In fact, it even added a little something to some of them. They played a medley near the end, too, which was really sweet.

I don't know what these top flight tune smiths are doing playing a tiny venue such as The Social and I am not going to over think it because all the better for the fortunate souls in attendance. This was billed as an "acoustic set" which if you watch Unplugged you know no longer means without amplification. I figure it means no solid body guitars, and the keyboard is low end. The effect is a little more string glitter and less pierce. The power in the band's pop comes through. On CD Fountains of Wayne are great song crafters utilizing unique lyrics. In person they are top flight musicians who care about both the audience and the performance. Seeing them in such an intimate setting as the The Social is an experience I consider a privilege that I will never forget. No matter the size of the hall, see Fountains of Wayne.

We've seen FoW a few times around the country- MA, NJ, here in Atlanta- we're huge fans. The acoustic show at the Variety was terrific- we got there early enough to grab a table right up at the stage. FoW rocked and their songs are so much fun to sing along to!

Great semi-acoustic show. They had fun with it (Stacy's Mom bluesy?), new songs were memorable, all the power(pop) still there.

great show from an underrated band. slowed down stacy's mom, which was a treat. the 10 minute medley was amazing

Fountains of Wayne are THEE consumate songwriters of my generation. Hands down. And this concert served as a resume of outstanding material shown in some of it's more meager adaptations. The band, without it's touring keyboardist, showed it's versatility in penning tunes in genres ranging from powerpop to soft rock, and in musicianship where members would trade off on instruments. They're probably best known (by those not really familiar with their body of work) for "Stacey's Mom". Fans of that tune would have been very pleased that it showed up in this set. A very chameleon-like version - sounding more loungy than pop until the signature chorus kicked in. And fans of their older work would have been excited too. In their 15+ song set, they included quite a few tunes from the s/t and "Utopia Parkway" albums. They also allotted time for four brand new (errr, slightly new) songs - most of which were quite heart-felt. If you get a chance to see them on this full band acoustic tour, go. You won't regret it.

This was a great concert, and a nice venue - wish more people had attended, but their loss.

travelled from Cleveland to see this show. This was my second time seeing this one of a kind band. They were Phenomenal!!! I had the opportunity to meet Adam and Jody afterward who came out to say hello to fans, Great guys and great talents! Don't miss them if you get the chance!

Fountains of Wayne are such a great combo of tight musicians, witty yet goofy lyricists! Didn't know how they would be live, but I wasn't disappointed. Park West is an amazing venue--every seat has good view and acoustics. The band was so much fun to watch in person with great narration between song and some hilarious stream of chordiousness song free association. Only wish I could have understood the words to their newer songs more clearly.

Great show by Fountains of Wayne, great venue, great service

I have seen many, many concerts, and Fountains of Wayne is among the best I have ever seen. Not only are they talented musicians, but their stage presence and humor add a delightful element to the performance. Highly recommended.

These guys put on a great show, with songs that are poppy but with really smart lyrics. For the ticket price of $25 or even free at Summer festivals, Probably one of the best bands touring this Summer. They are much more than "Stacy's Mom"

Brilliant, Fabulous, Amazing, no words to describe!

Concert could not have been better. Perfect venue for the band. Highly recommended.

Saw them open for Matchbox 20 years ago, left the concert early because for me, FOW was the HEADLINER! Anyway, I have had untold hours of pleasure listening to their catalog and I'm a big fan. This concert was good mainly because they are pop heroes for me. But there was an almost perfunctory aspect to the performance, just lacking a little gusto somehow. Maybe it's the acoustic angle. I was really happy to go (took the wife and my three teenagers) but stopped short of a five-star rating.

Show was enjoyable, if for just a short time. Concert started at 7:30, ended at 10:00 (with one opening act). Didn't know Fountains of Wayne had a curfew

Good show, I attended mostly for FOW and Evan Dando, although Soul Asylum put on an entertaining hour of some of their hits and more recent songs. Dave Pirner, at 49, still bangs his head like someone half his age. Dando sounded good and clear but played for barely 25 minutes, mostly from "It's a Shame About Ray" and "Come on Feel the Lemonheads" - songs that are now over 20(!) years old but sound timeless on his acoustic guitar. He still looks remarkably like he did 20 years ago, despite all of the drugs he's done. He seemed to want to speed through his set and barely spoke except to say "Thanks." FOW were so much fun, playing songs from their nearly 2 decade catalogue, but mostly from their debut album and "Welcome Interstate Managers." "Hey, Julie" was a highlight as they asked audience members to join them onstage and play various percussive hand held instruments. A gaggle of 20 and 30 something women gleefully sang along while onstage. For the encore, they played the obligatory "Stacy's Mom" but I enjoyed singing along to "Radiation Vibe", their very first single and final song of the night. Worth it for the 90s nostagia, but also some great musicianship from the three acts. The only downside was the terribly muddy sound at Webster Hall, with the exception of Dando's acoustic set. Could barely hear the vocals at times due to being drowned out by the instruments.

Fountains of Wayne are always comfortable to go see. Felt last Saturday's show lacked any joy, though. It seemed like they did not really want to be there. What was up with Jody Porter (thought he was going to fall asleep right on stage!). All that aside, I will probably go see them again.

I was dissappointed with the opening bands. The volume of all bands was too loud. Half of Fountains Of Wayne's songs were ones I enjoyed.

I went to this concert to see FoW, but Soul Asylum blew me away. Great music, energy and chemistry among band members was great. I've seen FoW a dozen times, and I love their music, but at this show I would have made two recommendations: (1) less electric guitar, especially on more mellow songs in which acoustics would be much better, and (2) Adam needs to relax! It's distracting when he's constantly complaining to the Tech Crew about sound-related issues. Just go with it and have fun. We know "live" means glitches, so just chill and play. This is 2 shows in a row during which he's been obsessed with electronics and, as I said, it takes away from the experience. That said, I continue to think FoW is one of the most under-appreciated bands of all time: catchy tunes, great harmonies, clever lyrics and consistent quality. They're big, but they should have been bigger!

FoW puts on a great show. Nothing crazy. Nothing big or over the top. Just a super solid show. They played songs from basically all of their albums. It was a good mix of new tracks and old favorites. I would definitely go see them again if they came back to my neck of the woods.

I bought these tickets on the assumption that the much more worthy band, soul asylum, was headlining. I couldn't care less about fountains of lame. Stacy's mom may have it going on, but this band sure as bleep do not.

Fountains of Wayne are great, and I've seen them 9 or 10 times. Soul Asylum and Evan Dando played really well. However, the Paradise Club needs to fire its sound tech. That show had the worst sound I've ever heard there. Front of house - pure mud. Songs: Unintelligible. Not just loud - mud. Terrible sound for a great show. Bummer.

Third time I've seen Fountains of Wayne at the Paradise. A good show, generally - but the last two times I've seen them there, the sound man had some troubles (this show was not as bad as the last one). Still a good performance by Fountains of Wayne. DEFINITELY could have skipped the first act (don't even remember his name) and Soul Asylum.

Decent Sky Full of Holes show marred by some sound issues -- loud on the floor and the band seemed to be having troubles with the stage mix. Janice's Party was a nice surprise in the encore!

Yes, another night full of catchy Power Pop, great ballads, and even a spin on country music that everyone can enjoy. A friend of mine introduced me to Fountains of Wayne back in '98 and I think I've only missed one Boston Performance. This group never ceases to entertain. As I looked about the crowd at the Paradise, it was evident this group appeals to a wide range of fans from their 20's to 60's. Give them a listen... It won't be long before their tunes are stuck in your head!

This concert was awesome. A little loud and some minor Feedback issues but the Band was on and Tight. Who else comes back on and does 5 Encore Songs. The new tunes from Sky Full of Holes sounded Fresh and is some of their Best Material. ( really glad they did Dip in the Ocean ). They represented their entire catalog with some of their Stronger Tunes like Denise,Someone to Love,Radiation Vibe ,Stacy's Mom ,Survival Car etc.... More tunes from Welcome Interstate Managers than any other Disc but all in all the tunes selected were great choices. Winterpills opened and were good in there own right. I will have to check out there catalog.

Outstanding show. The boys were in rare form and Jody melted the walls of the Paradise as usual. The new songs sound fantastic and the band truly gave their all for the show.

I've seen the band live in Boston 3 times, and this was the best show by-far. Jody Porter rocked out all night on lead guitar. Amazing energy, and the sound quality was pristine as always. They are often better live than on any CD. The band has a laid-back on-stage presence, but who cares when the music is this good?

FOW really soldiered through this one. Their playing was excellent (I noted that Adam's keyboard playing has really come along), BUT... The Paradise Club's sound engineer(s) were completely clueless. Horrible mix, feedback, distortion, a total nightmare. I wouldn't want to see FOW not get paid for their performance, but if the Paradise wanted to show some real consumer care, they'd give EVERYONE their money back. I felt bad for the band, I really did. I was standing right next to the sound board, and I was watching this idiot screwing up (I'm an acoustics engineer - I could see everything he was (and most of the stuff he wasn't) doing. He spent more time with his cell phone than he did running things... what a dope.

A fun night of witty, pop infested guitar rock. If you know the band and their tunes, you'll have fun. BUT...the sound was just about the worst I've heard at any show for many years. Sound techs couldn't stop the feedback from the bassist's mike...I wonder if they still had their jobs the next morning! Neverthless, the band played on!

Fountains of Wayne are a fantastic live act. Their brand of power pop is even stronger in a live setting. With high energy and fantastic musicianship, they own the stage. Also, they show a wonderful sense of humor - they always throw in a medley of unexpected tunes during their set. This night it included Jet by Wings, Do You Feel like I Do by Frampton, Mad World by Tears for Fears, and a tune by Foreigner. If you like their studio work, they are even better live. Great show!!!

FOW put on a great high energy show with a good mix of old songs and new ones off the new album. Definately one of the best live shows that I have seen in quite some time.

Great sound ,great songs,this band is right on live, always put on a great show,very powerful live.

Great set as always. Considering all their songs are solid we were not disappointed. Although the electric set should have continued longer. Improv songs were cool as was alternate Stacy's mom version. Natural crowd pleasures, funny and personable. Glad Adam took a nap before this show.

Great show by the Waynos! New material is excellent and, of course, they played lots of old classics. Rock on Fountaineers!

how these guys aren't 100x more popular than they are is beyond me. clever lyrics, catchy tunes, personable & fun stage presence, good musicians. a wonderful evening.

Fountains of Wayne is my most favorite band, ever. I couldn't have been happier to see them live.

Fountains of Wayne are the true balladeers of the great american middle class, and their intelligent lyrics and important themes were brought to the front by stripping down the instrumentation for this show. Of course this showcased the songs themselves, but it also helped make it clear to me that many audience members knew all the lyrics, too, and were not afraid to sing along. In an age of vacuous pop bands that don't risk denting their pre-packaging, it was a treat to see an audience that understood that music can be more than a background-- if this were a more engaged age (the late 60's comes to mind), FOW would be one of the biggest bands on the planet.

FOW did two shows in Boston, both electic and acoustic. I saw both shows and both were pretty similar except for the great acoustic arrangement for Stacey's Mom which added a darker tone to the song that was cool. They did a few different songs from their back catalog in the acoustic show that were fun to hear but most of the set lists were the same.

F.O.W. put on a very good show. I loved the venue as it was small enough where you felt you were a part of the show and not lost in the crowd. It was also fun to see the first performer come up on stage and sing with Fountains of Wayne (duet). Parking was difficult and may have to take the subway in next time, but all in all it was a very enjoyable evening of great music and good times.

This band writes smart lyrics and puts on an excellent show. Don't go to many concerts and this concert did not change my life...but they did a fine job of performing a mix of new stuff (which definitely motivated me to come) and the old stuff that is memorable and worth hearing again. The venue was excellent - price was fair, place was clean, in a nice neighborhood, not too crowded even when sold out, 3 or 4 bars to get a drink and 2 pool tables. No one hassled us to buy drinks (big plus). sound was good - although you never hear the vocals as well as you really want.

This show was awesome despite some very minor sound problems- Brighton Music Hall is a big upgrade over the dingy Harper's Ferry. The band is still fun-loving and full of energy after many years together. This show was better than the one that we saw at the Paradise last year. The new album rocks!

I had come to the show to see the opening act, Nicole Atkins. Fountains of Wayne were amazing all in all! Definitely a worth while show

We have enjoyed their music for many years, and last Sunday night at the Birchmere we finally got to see Fountains of Wayne live. They sound just as great live as they do on their cds, and they put on a show that was fantastic and fun -- very professional.

Me and the wife saw both the electric and accoustic shows - they were fantastic! FOW mixed their sets well and put a lot of energy into it. Funny, entertaining, great songs ranging from Cold Comfort Flowers to Leave The Biker with a little bit of Frampton, Wings, etc. thrown in for a real surprise. Do not miss this band if they're anywhere in your area.

Band started playing right around 9. The sound at the World Cafe is great. I was worried they might be too loud like the warm-up band but they knew how to play to the space just right. For only an hour and 1/2 show they crammed a lot of tunes in that time, including some great cuts from "Welcome Interstate Managers" and their outstanding new album, "Sky Full Of Holes". For $25 it was worth it. Had it been more expensive I would have expected a longer show.

Amazing show, as always you can count on from this talented group of guys! This was the third show I've seen of theirs at the Birchmere, and it's always amazing and fresh! Loved the new music, and of course, the classics can't be beat. Rock on FoW!! Come back to DC again soon!

Hard to believe that I hadn't heard of this group before. My friend heard the "Fresh Air" program that ran on WAMU, and I saw the review of the new album in the Washington Examiner, so I said, "Let's Go." I was surprised to see the Birchmere nearly packed for their show on a rainy Sunday night, so I knew I was in for a good show. They did not disappoint!

Cuz the days are long. And i see Fountains of Wayne. and theyre fun fun fun

FoW put on a great show, but the seated, dinner theater atmosphere was a little too forced and bizarre for a rock show. Next time try to book 9:30 club or Black Cat.

Despite not being sure what to expect, Fountains of Wayne put on a really fun show that the crowd of all ages was able to enjoy. There's a lot more going on here than just Stacy's Mom. Definitely worth catching them if they come back around again, especially in a smaller venue!

Loved the show. The venue is very cute and just about the right size for bands like Fountains of Wayne. There were people of every age group and it was just great. They played lots from the new album which was awesome, but they didn't leave out the classics were the crowd could sing along. All in all they were just great as always and I can't wait for the next show.

Band sounded good, but somewhat drowned out vocals.

Great band, great venue! The sound was perfect - Bowery Ballroom is one of my favorite places to see a show, it's just the right size and the staff is friendly and professional. FoW was great - they played songs from their new CD, and selections from their entire catalog. Such a fun band - great hooks, smart lyrics, excellent musicianship. The only downside to the entire experience was the two young dweebs who stood right behind me and decided to have a (loud) conversation throughout half the show. I had to tell them to shut up.

They are absolutely awesome live. The only group that puts on a better show then them is the E-Street band, and with that said its a close race. They did a three song medley in the middle of "Radiation Vibe", which is arguably their best single. And they ended the show with definitely the sickest version of "sink to the bottom" that I have ever heard.

This band is great live 5th time i've seen them.Chris & Adam are excellent song writers.Hung out afterwards to meet the band greta guys to talk with.I will always go to see FOW whenever i can

Great show!! The band played an amazing set. They were personable and interactive with the crowd.

Seeing these guys in this legendary club was an unforgettable experience. Even the hot weather couldn't diminish the joy. Rock & Roll is supposed to be gritty, and sweaty, and fun. This band is great!

Fountains of Wayne played songs from throughout their career and threw in a couple of curve ball mini-covers (Chris Collingwood surprised his bandmates with the opening licks to Peter Frampton's "Do You Feel Like I Do" and Blue Oyster Cult's "Burnin' For You"). The band sounded great. My only criticism is they aren't particularly enthusiastic performers. A little bit more energy would have put the show over the top. Marah, on the other hand, were a disappointment after having heard of their legendary live performances. Stripped down to a duo, their songs didn't impress and the drunken ramblings of the lead singer seemed less than genuine. Union NJ band Wes the Defender impressed with jaunty, melodic tunes and an energetic set.

I was looking forward to finally seeing a show at the Stone Pony, so when one of my favorite bands was playing I had to go. Fountains of Wayne were awesome. They are the coolest-laid-back-down-to-earth band ever. They played old favorites (perfect night for "It must be Summer") and some songs from their newest soon to be released album. Very impressive songs. With a great pop rock feel and beautiful tongue-in-cheek lyrics the whole set was AWESOME! Thank you FoW you are the best!

I WAS EXCITED TO GO, A NEW VENUE FOR ME, A BAND I REALLY LIKE, FROM NJ, WHERE I LIVE, HAVE ALL THERE CD'S PRIOR TO 2010, I DID'NT HERE WHAT I WANTED TO HERE, IT WAS GOOD BUT NOT GREAT, THE VENUE IS COOL, LIKE A SMALLER IRVING PLAZA. HOPE TO SEE THEM AGAIN WITH BETTER SONG SELECTION.

I can honestly say that I have never been to a bad fountains of wayne show. the only thing that came close was one time at the highline ballroom and I think it was the soundsystem and not the band. the show at BB was awesome. they played a great mix from all albums and a few new songs. the nice thing about the new songs they play is if you see fountains of wayne often enough, you have already heard the songs and can totally sing along. i never miss a FOW show.

I went to the Fountains of Wayne show with eager anticipation. They have such a great catalog of music to draw from now, with some new stuff too. But after being on the road for 7 days (last night was NYC), they were clearly tired and at times gave the impression, why are we here? Renditions of Mexican Wine, Hey Julie, and others were great...but their encore (with Stacy's mom) clearly showed they were uninspired, and perhaps tired. I pay to go to shows when I am uninspired and tired (hoping to get a lift). But these guys were just tired. I was disappointed, only because I know they are capable of 'turning it on.' Friday night was not their night.

Everyone is fine form and the new stuff sounds great. Lots of help onstage with "Hey Julie!"

M Crenshaw, long a hero of mine, was wonderfully warm, personable, and in great voice for his solo show. His songs are so tuneful and his voice so rich that even solo, it was captivating. Power to him for keeping the momentum all these years. FOW came out rocking and brought a smile to everyone's face multiple times. A few too many of the beautiful slow songs that while gorgeous, just held back the overall fun momentum, especially the two in the encore. Would have liked a few more rockers, but still, these guys brought a terrific punch to numerous numbers that just kind of lumber along on record, like Barbara H and Mexican Wine.

FoW is great any day. I particularly like the Paradise because of its smallish intimate setup. You can basically be close to the band anywhere in the club. They played a really great set, some new stuff & all the old favorites. The crowd was pumped but not insane - just how I like it! & we got to meet Chris outside, which made it even better!

OK, one of my favorite bands at my favorite venue - what could be bad? The Bowery Ballroom is the perfect size, and the staff is very cool. We missed most of Jill Sobule's opening set, but what we heard of it was really good. We were there to see Fountains of Wayne, though, and they were really on their game. The sound was great, well-mixed & loud in a very good way. FoW played a good mix from their extensive catalog, including several new songs from their forthcoming album.

Show was awesome. Great band to see live. Had been trying to see them for years. Well worth the wait. Played alot of old tunes and a few new ones. Guys were very entertaining and got the audience involved in a few songs.

Great 'writing & recording' band, but very dull and disengaged live (at least this time). A on-hour set pre-encore.... c'mon... really. Engineers were pushing the underpowered sound system to distortion too. Love this band buy it was a very boring live performance.

They were sooooo much fun!!!! they never disappoint! so fun!

FOW are maybe the most overlooked band playing today. Their songs are fun, funny, smart and poignant at the same time. The crowd was singing along on every song obviously very familiar with the band. There was a fun interaction between the audience and the band with the band even responding to a shouted request for Leave the Biker and playing that song. On Hey Julie they invite audience members up to play maracas and tambourines. It's my third time seeing them and they are always one of the most fun concerts you can see. Jill Sobule opened for them. I was only familiar with her hit song I Kissed a Girl (the first one as she amusingly pointed out). She is funny and smart and charming. I didn't know what to expect but she won me over. Her song about women in Halloween costumes was great as was her song about going to the gym. Big fun.

FOW played for an hour and change, did not address their audience and left me wondering if they think they are just too big to bother. I wont pay , or waste my weeknight fighting traffic to see them again.. It was not what I expected after having seen them before. The music was good though, just not enough of it and a little intro at the intimate Birchmere would have been nice. They should take some advice from their opening act, Jill Sobule, who knows how to relate to a crowd.

First, I am a huge fan of Fountains of Wayne (FoW). I had a trip planned to the Washington D.C. area to see another band (because promoters in Florida can't book a "real" band) and when I saw FoW was going to be at the Birchmere in Alexandria, VA I quickly moved to purchase tickets, change my flight and book a couple of extra nights at the hotel. This change in plans cost me plenty financially and as it would turn out, it also tainted my perception of one of my favorite bands today. I wouldn't say the show was horrible, but it resembled a bar gig more than it did a well rehearsed concert performance. I've been to the Birchmere once before and it is an amazing venue. Unlike many general admission clubs, seating is provided throughout and there isn't a bad seat in the house. However, it was WAY TOO LOUD for the intimate club known for its stellar sound production. Bassist Adam Schlesinger was the high point of the evening as he genuinely seems to enjoy performing and doesn't stray from his parts. Drummer Brian Young is the worst as he truly looks miserable and disinterested every time I see him play. The real disappointment for me was Chris Collingwood. He never really engaged the audience and had a bit of "rock star" machismo going this night. Lead guitarist Jody Porter is a very good guitarist and showman, although my suspicion is that some of the showmanship was brought forth from inside a bottle. Collingwood is a genius and I wish he and FoW would try to reproduce the slick production of their recordings when they perform live. I know they are talented and are capable of performing a "clean" show. FoW were too sloppy and too "punky" for the money I paid to stick around D.C. "just to see them". The Birchmere shares some of the blame for the extreme and unnecessary ear shattering volume. I'll give them another shot, though. FoW truly make some fantastic albums full of brilliant songs. Did I mention that they are one of my favorite bands? That is why the evening fell short for me.

The Birchmere is a wonderful venue, a place that ensures the audience will remain seated and quiet during performances. It is also a relatively small place, so no one in the audience is far-removed from the artists. Yet, Fountains of Wayne, whose lyrics are such a large part of their work, jacked up the sound so loud that there was nothing that wasn't distorted other than the moments when only an acoustic guitar was playing. The crowd was easily middle-aged for the most part - and I'm talking fifties and sixties - so it was not an audience to judge music only on its volume. My ears were ringing and my skull was vibrating as I tried my best to hear the words. For some reason, by the end of the concert the volume was even louder, so that the guitars were nothing but distorted noise, the vocals were almost completely submerged, and sadly what could be heard of the vocals were out of tune. I wasn't even sure they were all playing in the same key by that point. I've always been a big fan of FOW, so I was disappointed they didn't know enough to turn down the volume and let us hear their wonderful songs at the volume we're accustomed to on their CD's.

After listening to this band's music for almost 10 years I finally had the chance to see them live and they did not disapoint. They performed for about 1 1/2 hours and played a nice mix from their 4 previously released studio albums and some new material from a yet to be released album - all of which had the classic FOW sound and were excellent. This band has an amazing ability to perform heavier rockers along with ballads and they managed to capture that on stage. They have to be considered the kings of power pop, no other band comes close to matching their very distinct 60's sound with a sensibility from the 2000s. Phenomenal harmony vocals and instumentation. A+