Silver Jews

The Silver Jews are surprisingly new to the traveling game, despite their wandering roots. Led by David Berman on the guitar and vocals and his wife Cassie on the bass, the band played two sold out nights at Webster Hall. So how does a group that has never toured garnish so much fanfare? The answer is love. Berman, Bob Nastanovich and Stephen Malkmus started the Silver Jews while they all were at college in Virginia and over the years their albums have made their homes in the hearts of the fans, wondering if they would ever hear them live. Malkmus eventually went on to be an indie rock legend with his band Pavement. Berman continued to keep a low profile after his friends success, considering himself more of a writer than a performer. He continued to put out albums and came out with a book of poetry, “Open Air.” A relationship with drugs and life took a bad turn recently and Berman decided to overdose in the same Nashville Presidential Suite that Al Gore took refuge in during the confusion of the 2000 elections. Luckily his wife followed the trail and after Berman was revived in the hospital, he decided it was time to tour. The concert was energetic and the crowd was just grateful for the opportunity to hear one of their favorite songwriters. At one point Berman announced that he knew some were dragged to the concert and dedicated a song to them dragged. Cassie took the microphone and sang a beautiful tune while her husband marveled behind her. They played such favorites as, “Random Rules,” “How Can I Love You If You Won’t Lie Down” and “Sometimes a Pony Gets Depressed.” The crowd roared for an encore and the band obliged. Check out the Silver Jews as they continue their first tour. (I think they’re going to the British Isles soon.)

Tags:   silver jews, webster hall

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Posted on 3/27/2006 ( Permanent Link )
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