(REVIEW OF SHOW ON 3.31.11)
Enter a small venue, nothing more than a bar, a stage and two tables. The Beachland Ballroom’s Tavern is an intimate setting to say the least. Tonight it featured two great acts: The Lighthouse and the Whaler, hailing from Cleveland, OH, and S. Carey of Bon Iver.
The Lighthouse and the Whaler is a five-piece ensemble that blends timbres across the board, from guitar to violins, drum set, glockenspiel, tambourine, a little keys and some mandolin. You could say they’ve got the quintessential folk sound; soulful voices, great harmonies, a layered composition- from the percussive bass to the bells- a place for everything and everything in its place.
While contextually exuding a full, broad sound at times and a sparse, open sound at others, TLATW’s balance allows the unique timbres of their instrumentation to truly speak. Often switching instruments or singing backup vocals, the musicianship of these gentleman is evident.
There’s something organic about TLATW. Their sound is reminiscent of Celtic folk bands, with its clear vocals, field drum sound and violins, but there’s something more here. Everyone’s vibing in this band. It’s as if you can feel the music pulsing through its members, wafting out to envelope the crowd in an aurally satisfying embrace.
Their songs drift out to an end, as if they are merely fading off into the distance. These lads are a regular group of musical pied pipers. Their music leads you away from the cares of this world, allowing your soul to dance free for a while.
There’s so much to say for S. Carey, and yet, it seems not enough words to embrace this experience. A five piece ensemble featuring guitar, keys, clarinets (Bb and Bass), set, bass guitar/upright, and some synth, these gentlemen have It.
What’s It?
An ethereal, warm sound. A sound that welcomes you in as a listener. Vocals that nearly sound hymnal juxtaposed with a breakdown on miked drums, a pounding and racing to…silence. Vocal harmonies that would put the angels to shame.
If you’re looking for something that feels like home, look no further.
No comments:
Post a Comment