This past Tuesday was Scots night at the Belly Up as a pared-down The Twilight Sad and indie rockers Frightened Rabbit mad a trip across the pond for yet another US tour. More words and pix after the jump.
Though they were minus their rhythm section and were touring as what lead singer James Graham referred to as a 'less loud' ensemble, The Twilight Sad still put together a solid show. Despite amateur hour at the Belly Up threatening to sour the show's mood (Graham: 'Ah yes- I'm Scottish. That means yell shite at me.' as numerous Groundskeeper Willie-esque heckles rained from the crowd), the pared- down act performed an abbreviated set of tunes that at least those assembled at the front of the stage appreciated in rapt attention. If you were much further from the front row, you were treated to multiple conversations and one lunatic who insisted on screaming unintelligible gibberish while loudly clapping off beat during the opening act, between sets, and continually during the headliner. Must be something in the NoCo water.
Five piece Frightened Rabbit took the stage accompanied by an exceptional lighting set up which served to accentuate the show in a much appreciated way. Though they've played San Diego about five times in the past three years, this was my first opportunity to experience their live show and I was not disappointed. Between songs the band kept it light, mixing in stage banter and anecdotes leading into songs (especially enjoyable was the one describing his three year old niece in preschool. The children were asked what their favorite song was and while most responded with a typically age-appropriate nursery rhyme, when it came around to lead singer Scottt Hutchison and drummer Grant Hutchison's neice, she quietly uttered 'Death March', a single from the band's newest LP. Concerned calls to parents ensued.). While leaning heavily on new material from Pedestrian Verse, the band touched all bases, hitting tracks from each of the previous three albums as well as a fantastic two song acoustic set featuring only Scott, his guitar, and a spotlight. If there was one moment during the show where conversation and even deranged fanatics were quiet, it was then and it was exquisite. The show finished on a high note and the band thanked the crowd and left the stage to hop on their tour bus, headed to Austin and SXSW.
The Twilight Sad:
Frightened Rabbit:
For more photos from the evening click here and for other concert photography click here.
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All photos licensed by Nate Vandermeulen under Creative Commons- BY-NC
Please ask for permission before downloading or linking to them.
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