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Review by John Laird/Photos by Doug Freeman
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Riding a massive wave of positive buzz that stems from 2006’s EP Project and the recent release of their sophomore album, The Broken String, on new local imprint Dead Oceans, Bishop Allen joyfully strolled into town with Page France, the Teeth and locals Frank Smith in tow. Each band was doing their best to support their latest full lengths, so all of their sets were spirited enough to peak the interest of even the most unengaged scene kids that were present at Emo’s Lounge.
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The trio of Frank Smith hit the stage right about 10pm and proceeded to play a nice set of twangy, simplistic folk. Apparently, the band normally operates as a six-piece, which would have definitely given them a boost in the sound department, but they managed well enough on their own and turned in a decent performance. I believe it’s a good idea to expect to see more in the future from this Austin-by-way-of- Boston outfit.
Of the four quality acts that played, it was the Philadelphia quartet The Teeth who turned in the most pleasantly surprising set of the night. It was filled with a lot of energy and their quirky style of indie pop provided a much needed change of pace from the more folk oriented sounds of the other two opening acts, Frank Smith and Page France. The sweat poured from the group as they flung around the stage, especially the fantastically mustachioed bassist. Check out their latest, You’re My Lover Now, if possible.
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It’s hard to fault Page France for not going out of their way to turn their detailed-littered folk songs into foot stomping crowd pleasers whenever they’re in a live setting, as that would probably take away everything that makes their records so good, but it does seem as if they’re getting better at straddling the line between the two. Much of their set actually strayed from the more subtle, slightly stiff performances of the previous times that I’ve seen them, and it was a rather nice change.
My only complaint was that too much of their set consisted of material from their new Page France And The Family Telephone. I think Hello, Dear Wind is just too good to only briefly visit.
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Bishop Allen definitely held down the headlining position well. These guys sure know how to have a good time. Not only did they provide a wonderful hour of well crafted indie pop that had the fans singing and the scene kids dancing on songs like the infectious “Click Click Click Click,” but even took the time to further appease their parents, who were in attendance, by ending the night with a cover of Creedance Clearwater Revival’s “Have You Ever Seen The Rain.” Sure, that may not seem like anything more than a novel idea, but I think it’s a clear testament to how accessible the band is. Whether you know a single note or not, a Bishop Allen show is sure to make for a good time, so get out and see them.
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