Hard-Fi (Warsaw, 3/31)... (finally)

I need to stay on top of these things. At least this one isn't a full week late. Now, to Hard-Fi:

The night opened up brilliantly. I finally made it out to Brooklyn without getting lost once. In fact, I gave the directions to my companion this time around. With marble cake in hand (we made a pit stop for some sweets to fuel the night) we waited in the blue wash of the Warsaw awning for the doors to open and the night to truly begin.



The first band up (after a long wait outside, then an even longer one inside) was a band I had been curious about lately: The Comas. I had originally heard this band on a Paste Magazine music sampler given to me by my very good friend Heather. Lately, I have been going through my 10000 song library (spring cleaning) and just recently re-stumbled upon their single "The Science of Your Mind." (a happy coincidence if there ever were one). To a welcoming crowd, the band started up with none other than "The Science of Your Mind" and from the first note, we were all hooked. Weaving rough male and angelic female vocals together, The Comas create a unique sound that should push its way to the pinnacle of the indie genre. The live show itself was good, but didn't stand out as spectacular in the mind of one so overwhelmed by shows in the past month (see past posts). Talking to the band after the gig (as they tried to figure out their ride situation) I realized that they were also really nice people (sold they album to us for some loose change and some eye drops (Rachael)) and I have now made it a resolve to buy their new album as soon as possible. So go out, see them if you can, and definitely check out their album. They're sure to satisfy.



Next up was the band we had all been waiting for: Hard-Fi. In all honesty, I was a bit anxious about the quality of the show. I had heard many mixed reviews on the subject of their live show, and hoped I didn't end up attending one of their sub-par performances. Good thing I didn't. The show was phenomenal. Though awkward at times (at most times) Richard Archer possessed a stage presence that could only lead you to think one of two things:
1) This man knows how to put on a show. Their fame is truly deserved.
2) This man is on crack.
Though I don't really know the state of the man's inebriation, I can tell you that I could only think #1. All of us had high expectations for the show (can you say #1 album in the UK and double platinum record?)and in the end, Hard-Fi delivered with extra for the speculators. I really wish I wasn't dancing so much (I had my dancing shoes on and left my shame at the door) so that I could see the crowd behind me. Based on the general sway of the crowd, and the volume of those singing along, however, they were all having just as good of a time as I.

Highlights of the night:
-"Hard to Beat"
-"Stars of CCTV"
-Julie keeping the obnoxious Yorkshire carrot-top look-alikes and the large man with drinks away
-"Living for the Weekend"
-Oh, and did I mention meeting Richard Archer??? (He told me to buy a Melodica. Which he plays very well)



Final analysis: Brilliant show. Had more fun that I'd ever expect. Hard-Fi truly knows how to put on a concert.

The Comas - The Sience of Your Mind
Hard Fi - Stars of CCTV

The Comas' Official Site
Hard-Fi Official Site