Emerald City, 30 March 2007 (Denver, CO)

This may be the coolest and weirdest venue I've ever been to in my life. Actually (for those of you who grew up in Northern Virginia), it reminded me a lot of Planet NOVA in that it was tiny, quirky, and where everyone who was ANYONE would go see random local bands get their start. The place had no sign on the outside, so we weren't even sure we were where we were supposed to be, but with the amount of people walking in and the loudness that ensued when the door opened, we took our chances. Apparently, the place used to be an old art warehouse (albeit, a small one), and there is still some really bizarre art hanging on the walls and from the ceiling. All of it just made for an interesting ambiance--a perfect place for a local show.

They actually have a decent sound system there. In a place that small, you wouldn't expect any huge technical advances, but their PA system delivers a fairly even sound, and a very LOUD one, at that. They also have a projector, but it was out of commission when we were there. There are a few couches dispersed throughout the room(s), and there is a loft in the back of the room with the main stage. I would absolutely go there again, if for no other reason than to just sit in the back and watch the scene. It was a good people-watching night.

As far as the music, it was impressive. The first band we heard was called Cast Upon Alcott, and their set was definitely good. What stood out to me about them was that they definitely had a great feel for rhythm. I love it when bands get experimental with time signatures--it keeps everyone guessing and shows musicianship. Their lead singer is a screamer, and he does that very well. I just wish he would sing every now and then also. While I applaud anyone who can scream like that (especially without ruining their voice), melody is very important to me. During their set, there were some parent-types taking pictures, which makes me think that some (or all) of them are on the younger side. It's great that they're getting this kind of experience now--the earlier the better. Remember the movie High Fidelity? Their sound is very similar to those punk skater kids John Cusack ends up producing for. Vince & Justin, I believe. Someone broke a guitar string at the end, so they were unable to play their last song, but a solid set, anyway.

Next came The Sunsets Before He Died, who claimed this was their first show ever. Mike from Skyrise to Martus confirmed that as being true. I was shocked. They were actually VERY well polished for that being their inagural performance. I have to admit that the specifics are a little lost right now--I should mention the fact that this show was on a Friday, which meant that I was up at 0330 for work, did not sleep during the day, and it was already 11pm. I wrote some things down, but looking at it now, it doesn't make a whole lot of sense. Not my best research! They did do a cover song that I didn't recognize, but that everyone loved. Everyone was on their feet, dancing, and the band seemed to really enjoy playing it. There's no feeling like your first show--I hope to see them again so I can actually have some coherent thoughts about it. I sure liked what I heard.

Skyrise to Martus came on next, and since that's who we were there to see, we made our way up to the front. Because there was no actual stage, I was standing right in Mike's face and probably nearly got pelted with a bass a few times. It was nice to be right there--everything sounds different from way up close like that. It was cool to hear them again, this time knowing more of their material. As usual, they put out an excellent set--shorter than the last one, I think--and I maintain my opinion that they have something special about them. They have the potential to go a long way if they stay together and if they want to go for it. From my angle, I got to watch the drummer, Joshua, a little more, and I'm even more impressed than I was the other night. He has an incredible ear for rhythm and is able to pull out some really varied and unique moves on a fairly small kit. He's also extremely energetic (which is always fun to watch), and probably loses 5 lbs. durinig every show. My only complaint was that I couldn't hear the vocals that well. It could have been where I was standing--I was not in the direct line of the PA speakers, and I was kind of getting this weird mix of reverb and floor monitor sound. It's a shame, because I think they are vocally very strong. As I said before, Ryan has a powerful belt in him, and Mike sings some good harmonies--he should really be more assertive with them.

We left after their set (if we hadn't, I would have curled up right there in the corner and passed out), but I'm glad we went. We got to see an interesting place, that we'll hopefully revisit... and I think we've officially become skyrise to Martus groupies. It's probably going to be a while before we get out to any more shows, but my ears can probably use the break. It'll be nice to delve into some albums for a little bit. Any suggestions--send 'em my way.