Music News from New York and Beyond


My SXSW Hangover: Part II

Posted on March 19, 2008

Here's Part II of my SXSW recap. Below are 10 short reviews of bands I saw last week. Read Part I.

eyeball.jpgThe Donnas (6/10) - These four femme punks have outgrown small venues. Watching them on a small stage was like watching Ashton Kutcher in Eastchester Elementary's production of Guys and Dolls. Lead guitarist is a babe though. storeicon.gif

Moby [DJ Set] (6/10) - Damn Moby, why so loud? We like dancing, but we can't gyrate (and look sexy) if we're covering our ears the whole time. Yeah, you spin good music, but turn down the decibel level.

Iglu & Hartley (10/10) - West coast '80s inspired glam rock at its finest. Even though these kids look like the Dazed and Confused casting call rejects, they put on one of the best performances of the week.

Justice (5/10) - The cops tried to shut this show down because it was too loud -- if being boring was a crime, the duo would have been arrested. Yeah, I love their album, but these guys are terrible live.

Matt & Kim (10/10) - The 10/10 score applies to both times I saw them last week. These guys just can't put on a bad show. The duo is extremely appreciative of their audience, and makes each show a unique experience. storeicon.gif

The Hanks (8/10) - A lot softer and emotional than their image implies, yet an extremely solid performance. Read our interview with them.

MGMT (6/10) - Whiny pricks. Rather than playing their hit live, they spun a recording before going on stage, claiming that promotional events were lame. Being anti-establishment is so ten years ago.

The Heavy (10/10) - Amazing. Read my full review of this one here. storeicon.gif

Die! Die! Die! (7/10) - I'm assuming the members of this band originally met at the ADD Doctor. An exciting show, with instruments and musicians flying off stage into the crowd. Not too fond of their sound, but was thoroughly amused. storeicon.gif

Dizzee Rascal (6/10) -When it comes to raps about "the struggle," I always try to listen to lyrics. Unfortunately, Rascal's heavy accent makes him as coherent as a subway announcement. storeicon.gif

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