The Extra Lens

Both bands (Extra Lens and John Vanderslice) sounded great, and were all around sweet-hearts. Very very funny guys, kept the crowd in a great mood, and looked like they were having a great time. Made for a very enjoyable experience. The music was awesome, but that was to be expected. Always an extra treat when the performers are as fun and gracious as guys like these. Aural prozac!

Seeing John Darnielle in a venue as small as Mercury Lounge guaranteed that the only people there were fans. And wow. When there aren't annoying people talking at the back of the room, it really improves the experience! And Franklin Bruno is awesome and hilariously under-appreciated. I thought this was better than a lot of Mountain Goats shows I've seen.