Seen Live at Rockwood: Jus Post Bellum

It’s always a good sign when a band sounds better live than on record, and it is undeniable that this rare circumstance happens more often with folky bands than with rocking ones. Jus Post Bellum (from Latin, "Justice after war") is a Folk band based in Brooklyn, influenced by artists such as Bon Iver and Bob Dylan. I’ve had their new album “Oh July” on repeat on Spotify for a while, and was bummed to miss their record release show at Rockwood last month, so I made sure to be at the following one last Tuesday on stage 2. Groomed in a very “Brooklyn folkster” style, Hannah (vocals) and Geoffrey (vocals and guitar) created beautifully intimate and sparse songs, enriched by precise and tasteful harmonies, while Daniel at the double bass added a subtle groove to the set with his parts and movements. This is an unpretentious band focused on moving its audience with good songs – if that’s your thing, check them out when you get a chance. – Anna Chalon