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Hemlock Tavern November 6, 2002 Review by Jake Thomas I didn't think I had ever heard of La Cerca, but then once they started playing I realized that I had heard one of their songs via MP3 from somewhere. But I didn't realize it until about halfway through their set when they actually played the song. That song along with a few others were pretty good, but there were some that just didn't catch my ear, and I subsequently spaced out for a portion of the show. I've been trying to think of a way to describe their music, and the best I can come up with is jangly indie pop that leans towards the downer end of the spectrum, not unlike Sebadoh or something along those lines. One of the highlights of the band was the keyboardist, who seemed to tie everything together while everyone else just did their own thing. Apparently, they were also missing their rhythm guitarist who quit the band earlier that week or something, so if she had been there perhaps their performance might have been a little better. The singer kept making off-handed remarks about it tat ended up giving things an uncomfortable feel, but was somewhat endearing at the same time. This group might possibly develop into something that appeals to me a little more in the future, as the band develops further. I guess time will only tell on that one though. Hudson was up next. Every time I see him, it's in a different formation. This time it was him plus bass and drums, which I'm told is the normal line-up. Not only are his bands different each viewing, but his song arrangements as well. As I've said before, I love his album, but seeing him live is like seeing someone altogether different. This night was the closest he's come to playing the songs as they are on the album, at least for parts of a few of the songs. The rest of the night was the most rocking I've ever seen him, reminding me of Doug Martsch or Neil Young in his guitar work. He was getting so crazy he ended up fucking up his hand a little bit, but he kept on playing like a trooper. This was my favorite of his three shows, but I would still like to hear things played a little closer to the album for at least a few songs of the set. He did wrap things up nicely though, with a cover of the Velvet Underground's 'What Goes On', which sounded great and made a terrific closer for the evening. --- Read our previous Hudson Bell reviews Review October 9, 2002 @ Make-Out Room Photos September 7th @ Hemlock Tavern ©2002 playinginfog.com |