Although it is deemed as one “category,” tonight’s Deli B.E.A.F 2011 Alternative Rock Stage envelops a multitude of styles and tastes, representing the ever changing and progressive nature of the New York music scene. Here’s a closer look at the bands playing on May 27 at Spike Hill:
11.45 – THE YES WAY
Taking a path less common than most rock bands, The yes Way incorporate in their admirable track list different sonic elements – guitar riffs blended with smooth harmonies, heavy instrumentation carried by emotional vocals.
11.00 – TAURUS
IN Taurus’ music, harmonious and eerie melodies meld with psychedelic vibes and darker undertones on their upcoming EP, “Cannon Falls Forever.” Unexpected twists on swelling modulations keep the ear guessing on “Born a Lion;” hypnotic guitar strums and smooth vocals come together on the peaceful “Love Would Bury You;” and, a gentle introduction on “Carolina” transforms into a swirl of reverb and distortion. (MB)
10.15 – SHAKE THE BARON
Catchy, unassuming and emotional (not in an "emo" way), Shake The Baron’s pop rock is as good as it gets. This band has noteworthy songwriting chops – check out the embedded song "Tree House" – and a rather placid attitude: even though most of their songs are quite upbeat, they kind of sound like mid tempos, because the band rocks without "losing it", allowing guitarist/vocalist Andrew Oedel’s smooth tenor space to shine.
9.30 – SUBMARINE BELLS
Reverberating guitars and echoing, lax vocals melt together into Submarine Bells’ signature sound of silky melodies floating over crashing drums, embellished by flickering percussion. Vaguely reminiscent of Walkmen’s Hamilton Leithhause, Owen McCarthy’s vocals are so intense it seems they are carrying the weight of the world. (MB)
8.45 – THE YOUNG THINGS
Sounding like the early Beatles’ evil cousins, The Young Things’s music is likely to give your lazy NYC ass a good, deserved shake. Maybe their secret is that their music is obviously inspired byo the classic party songs of the 60s, from "It’s Been a Hard Day’s Night" to "La Bamba" – i.e. the sound track of most teenagers’ parties, or – at least – of the ones who have the word "hipster" branded in their destiny.
8.00 – PILLOW THEORY
There is nothing sleepy about pILLOW tHEORY ( a band that last year opened for Living Colour in Central Park). The NYC quartet’s current and second release, “Outpatience” showcases hints of jazz intertwined with the aggressiveness of metal, drive of punk, the smoothness of soul, and the energetic appeal of pop, delivering dynamic variety and unexpected twists on New York’s typical rock outfit. (MB)