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The Dodos played to a packed Studio B on Sunday 6/14. The Dodos combined a sensational blend of deft guitar work and intricate drumming that electrified the crowd.
Phil and the Osophers kicked off the festivities playing a fun and upbeat set. The young three piece act offer tightly wound pop-rock tunes that are engaging and breezy. Studio B was beginning to fill up, and the band was thankful for everyone who showed up early. Their set coincided with the drummer’s birthday, which gave a nice air of levity to the proceedings. A couple of highlights include “Uses of a Man” and “We Have All Summer”. The band has grown from the last time I saw them. There is more of a stage presence to the and now and that allows the charm of the songs to come through.
Laura Gibson was next up and was an interesting contrast from Phil and the Osophers and headliner The Dodos. Gibson is a folk singer with a pretty voice and sparse instrumentation. Her voice played well to the now packed Studio B crowd. Although I could not catch all of the set, the songs I listened to were tight and burned with smooth control. Gibson’s voice has that quality that is comparable to great jazz singers.
The Dodos were up next and played a fantastic set of old and new tunes. Harmonious at the same time as dissonant, the band plays with sound so well, it’s amazing to think they are just two (with the help of a third member live) people playing.
Studio B was crowded as could be, with everyone trying to get the best view possible. Upbeat “Jodi” was an early hit, providing a glimpse of the ingenious drum and guitar work.
The band combined several new tracks that were stellar. More melodic with an added sense of determination, these songs only helped whet the appetite of fans. Like a dervish of sound, the guitar flourishes forward and the drums pull you in. Although he was seated, lead singer Meric Long exudes passion. The band received some interesting attention when Bud Light picked “Fools”for their national ad campaign.
The band played the song to a great roar of approval and the band played a great version of that,which you can see below.
Considering how heavy the set was with new songs, it was amazing that the band held the audience like they did. Only a handful of songs were previously released but the energy of the new songs will make them favorites when the new album comes out.
Following a brief respite, the band came on to close with “The Ball”. A treat for longtime fans, the song was a fitting way to end a great early set of music.
