Photo: Project Jenny, Project Jan at the 2008 ATJ Fest (by Bumpershine).
On December 19, Project Jenny, Project Jan played a set for the Jezebelmusic.com benefit show for Common Ground. Although it was frigid and snowing outside, the duo put on an extremely entertaining show.
The show at the Music Hall of Williamsburg was for a great cause. Common Ground aims to end homelessness by providing affordable housing, as well as outreach and support. All the artists performed for free, which showed their dedication to the cause.
The benefit hosted seven eclectic bands and overall, it was a great night of music.
Neckbeard Telecaster started the show, and had numerous members on stage. This allowed for a great range and fullness of sound. Although it was early, they put on a good, albeit brief set. Wakey!Wakey! were another band who put on a charismatic and engaging set. The songs had personality that oozes with character shaped from living in New York City.
Wakey!Wakey! - Brooklyn.mp3
Wakey!Wakey! – Brooklyn [MP3]
Project Jenny, Project Jan mixes a combination of minimalist electro beats, hip-hop, and indie rock, the duo, accompanied by free association video projections, put on an energetic and eclectic set. Jeremy Haines has a hip-hop vocal styling, mostly rapping with a small amount of singing over Sammy Rubin’s electronic beats.
Project Jenny Project Jan - Low.mp3
Project Jenny, Project Jan – Low [MP3]
Project Jenny Project Jan - Chinatown Bus.mp3
Project Jenny, Project Jan – Chinatown Bus [MP3]
Haines was thoroughly engaging, joking around between songs, dancing and running back and forth across the stage. It’s an interesting mix of styles that at times clash, but not unpleasantly.
Incredibly dance-y, the songs were fast paced and focused. They had the crowd moving around throughout their set, and their banter helped draw the audience further into their madcap styling. Project Jenny, Project Jan, at times sexual and other times hysterical, is a unique band that knows what it wants to do and has fun doing it.
For more info on Common Ground check out their website, commonground.org.
