This Week In Music: February 12 - 18

Monday, February 12
Silverchair
Webster Hall
$20

A little over 12 years ago this trio of 15 year olds was plucked from their high schools by Australia's national youth radio station, Triple J in a nation-wide search for new, young talent. Their debut single, Tomorrow went #1 in their homeland and in 1995 it was the most played song on U.S. Modern Rock radio. They've gone through many musical incarnations since but have continued to remain sonically charged and in recent years have found a slightly more accessible pop-sensibility through the addition of elaborate arrangements and orchestral elements alongside heavy guitars. This will be the first opportunity to hear live, new material from their forthcoming album, Modern Young which is set for a summer release.

Tuesday, February 13
Arcade Fire
Judson Memorial Hall
$29

The Arcade Fire are not in a bad position. For starters, their debut album, Funeral had critics and fans bursting at the seams back in 2004/5. You've probably also noticed a plethora of new bands since carefully attempting to emulate their sound blueprint. While scoring a 5-night stint at this obscure venue seems a fine feat, it pales in comparison to what the band will achieve in 2007 with the released of their new album, Neon Bible. Bruce Springsteen fans may raise an eyebrow or two on first listen…

Wednesday, February 14
Diamanda Galas' Valentine's Day Massacre
Knitting Factory
$20 (All ages)

Well now, an all-ages Diamanda Galas show. What better way to share one's Valentine's Day than with this iconic, internationally renowned avant-goth performer with a penchant for delivering to her audience a performance brimming with darkness. Melodically-challenged she may be however this evening presents a rare opportunity to experience cover versions of some of Galas' favorite songs including: Ralph Stanley's, O Death (The Reaper's love song), Marlene Dietrich’s, Moi Je M’ennuie, Edith Piaf’s, Padam and Chet Baker’s, The Thrill Is Gone.

Thursday, February 15
Calla
The Annex
$10

With the follow-up to the highly acclaimed, Collisions album in the pipeline and titled, Strength In Numbers (scheduled for released by Beggars Banquet on Feb 20), indie-trio, Calla are shtinging to road-test some of their new material. You can wrap your ears around the first single, Bronson right here.

Friday, February 16
Sonic Youth
Webster Hall
$26.50 adv/ $28 door

Seminal independent rock outfit, Sonic Youth return to the live arena touting their new B-sides and rarities album, The Destroyed Room. Having cemented their place in pop-culture over the past two decades for their attitude, artistic freedom, political voice and highly influential recordings their on-stage dynamic remains consistently engaging and powerful.

Saturday, February 17
Kevin Devine/ Jennifer O'Connor/ Pablo
Knitting Factory
$10 adv/ $12

With a line-up that frankly you couldn't make for ten bucks, you could do far worse than immersing yourself in some of the best new music around. If Lo-fi, acoustic singer-songwriter's float you boat, these performers may already be on your radar. If not, what are you doing man? Hand over the dosh and get an injection of warmth better than a hot cup of cocoa.

Sunday, February 18
Snowden
Mercury Lounge
$10

Though a bouquet of UK post-punk influenced bands have reared themselves over recent years, it's difficult to stand out from the throng. Snowden's debut album from last year, Anti-Anti sees a wonderful clash of vibrant shoe-gazing and bleak Joy Division-esque musings washed thoroughly in singer, Jordan Jeffares' – at times – monotone yet appealing vocal style. Worth a gander.

Tags:   Arcade Fire, Australian Bands, Calla, Diamanda Galas, Jennifer OConnor, Kevin Devine, Knitting Factory, Mercury Lounge, New Music, Pablo, Silverchair, Snowden, Sonic Youth, The Annex, Webster Hall

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Posted on 2/11/2007 ( Permanent Link )
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