Carpark/Paw Tracks Showcase @ LPR
Last night I was fortunate to make it out to the Carpark/Paw Tracks showcase. I think it goes without saying that bands like Ecstatic Sunshine and Beach House give pretty consistent stellar performances, so I would like to turn my attention to some of the lesser known acts.
I caught the tail end of Tickley Feather’s show, which was fairly melodic, lo-fi, and sometimes minimalist in all the good ways. I have seen her before and again she came through with a solid offering.
Next up was a personal favorite of mine. I will preface this and say that I understand that Excepter’s noisey/dancey/provoking aesthetic isn’t for everybody. However, they have provided me with some of the best dance shows I have ever seen/heard. Often, you can never predict what they will do. This time they leaned towards the noise, slightly performance art side of their performances—singer John Fell Ryan even wielded a knife throughout a good portion of the set. All I have to say is give Excepter a couple of chances before you make up your mind.
Adventure was an artist that I wasn’t familiar with until this show. His sound is in keeping with the Baltimore future shock sound. And, he was able to get a good portion of the crowd dancing by the end of his set.
Last but not least, the newest addition to Paw Tracks is native Mississippians Dent May and His Magnificent Ukelele. This was the most unusual band on the bill. The sound has elements of country and folk music (perhaps a nod to zydeco) straight from the backwoods of the Delta—sung by a younger indie rock kid. At first listen, it might be difficult to understand how this act fits with the Paw Tracks family. However, I kept thinking of how charming and familiar the music sounded and didn't really care if it fit with the overall Paw Tracks aesthetic. I will definitely catch him again when he comes around. Epic win.
Adventure
Dent May and His Magnificent Ukelele
