A peaceful yet post apocalyptical ambiance is the scene Ape School paints in Michael Johnson’s latest creation. Before the vocals enter the picture, futuristic echoes set the stage and the coast appears to be clear. Then a smooth even-keeled voice arrives bringing with it a sense of relief like a cool mist hitting your face. Slowly the instrumental layers build as life naturally reemerges from every corner and crevice of protection and so begins the new age. When you scan the surroundings, The Homophones fronted by Jason Ferraro might catch your eye. Ferraro’s rich baritone vocals give him the heir of a wise man, and his songs read like an oral history bridging the gap between the not so distant past with the uncertain future. As your mind fights to figure out the next step, relax and recover to let the fire burn while the humorously deviant shaman eases your mind. It’s a sweet lineup with the two acts opening for The Deli NYC’s Best Emerging Artist(s) of 2011 Caveman, who will provide dense vocal harmonies and sophisticated instrumentation to some seriously captivating indie pop to win the locals over. Milkboy Philly, 1100 Chestnut St., 8:30pm, $12, 21+ (Photos by Q.D. Tran) – Michael Colavita
