Live Review: The Picture + Tab the Band, Deadbeat Darling and Black Taxi

On January 28, 2010, Black Taxi and Deadbeat Darling (in the picture) sold out the Bowery Ballroom for their second time in eight months, collaborating with TAB the Band, who celebrated their release of “Zoo Noises,” and The Picture, who performed for their final time. Half brothers, all rock ‘n roll, TAB the Band treated the audience to a dozen playful, gritty tunes, including their latest single “She Said No (I Love You).” A photo montage of The Picture, illuminating the venue, set the stage for their delicate, angst-ridden, nostalgic sound. Overwrought with anticipation, the crowd welcomed Black Taxi with non-stop dancing to favorites from “Things of That Nature” and new songs that showcased the band’s consistently masterful songwriting. Frontman Ezra Huleatt’s glockenspiel, decorated with parasol and faux plants, met its demise during a zealous on-stage smashing. Dapper and dynamic, Deadbeat Darling dove into “Weight of Wandering” and unreleased tracks, closing the evening with swirling lights and a “picture perfect” performance. -Meijin Bruttomesso