sun is high

Best Shows Of 2009

2009 was a really slow year in terms of shows. As I recall the tours that came through town, it seems to me that the recession was not good to Nashville in terms of concerts. In fact, it was downright sparse. I can’t really say I’m complaining all that much though. I am finding I am much more selective these days.

1. Andrew Bird and St. Vincent – Ryman Auditorium
This was probably the best concert I think I’ve seen at the Ryman. I’ve seen a lot of good acts there. Interpol, The Strokes, Belle and Sebastian and a few others. For some reason though, Andrew Bird seems like the perfect fit for that venue. The lightness and delicacy of his music seemed to carry perfectly through the 118 year old building. I had never really even listened to his music prior to this concert, and I actually prefer it that way. Annie Clark was also surprisingly great. Again, another musician I’d never really paid much attention to, but her vocals live are terrific. All in all, a great evening of music. If you want a taste:

2. School of Seven Bells (and BMSR) – Exit In
Black Moth Super Rainbow headlined this show, but I was there to see the Secret Machines offshoot SVIIB. Their debut album had steadily grown on me, and I’m glad I went to this. It provided one of the most thorough washes of sound since I had seen the Raveonettes. Another perfect blend of melody and distortion. I’ll be curious to see what direction the next album takes.

3. The Bad Plus – Highline Ballroom – NYC
I enjoyed this show for a wide variety of reasons. First, it was an exposure to some quality music in a style that I never listen to, progressive jazz. Second, it was in a super nice music club in New York City. The combination of the two made for an unforgettable evening. I felt like I was transported to 1950’s New York, and I was living in a movie where guys still for ties and fedoras to work. The band themselves are some of the most skilled musicians I think I’ve seen.