Lets Get Lost opened the show with a clever set of clever tunes with clever chord changes. A superficial 1960's psychedelia vibe with a vague carnival barker theme and not a bit of emotional connection to the crowd. The band was obviously well rehearsed and well groomed; perhaps too much so. These are boys that take their craft (and themselves) very seriously and the effect was slightly alienating.
Is it sexist of me to admit that Little Scream's performance made me think of the Lilith Fair festival? Little Scream was fronted by a woman with a breathy, serene voice. Occasionally the drums were tom-heavy and upbeat enough to vaguely raise a pulse, but overall the band also lacked an emotional core to connect with. Where Let's Get Lost was trying to be far to clever, Little Scream was attempting to be a bit too mystical. This is a case of the maple syrup missing. Just a bit more roughness around the edges would have made them engaging.
When Plants and Animals took the stage there was an instantly recognizable difference. The songs were neither groundbreaking nor breathtaking, but there was a genuineness and a playfulness that was lacking in the previous two sets. The interplay between guitarist Nic Basque and singer Warren Spicer was hilarious, with multiple cock-rock moments of guitar bromance that were completely at odds with the humble and lean rock and roll they were playing. Spicer's voice was simultaneously unassuming and raw, the songs were tighter than a vacuum seal without feeling overly rehearsed and the tempo was varied enough to be interesting. His banter felt like conversation rather than a contrived script. The occasionally added instrumental vamp felt natural and kept the vibe energetic and consistent. "Lightshow" and "Control Me" were highlights from the new record, The End of That. Basque's sparse guitar playing complemented Spicer's steady strumming, completing the sound by injecting new melodies and sizzling two note chord progressions. Perhaps the band was especially excellent in light of the performances that had come before; perhaps it was just a really simple, enjoyable set of rock music.
Respectfully, I disagree. I think that I was disappointed how fucking boringly similar P&A was to every other band I've ever heard in my life. At least that band lets get lost was trying to do something different.
No worries. I can appreciate the ambition in their performance. I respectfully see your point. Cheers!