Three posts in 3 days! You guys are not allowed to give me any more crap for at least 2 weeks; so keep your e-mails and IM’s sweet like sunshine and lemon drops.
Last week I realized that it had been several months since I had gone to any live music to relax, take a few pics and right a handy dandy review of the show, and last Saturday night I remedied that situation with a trip down to South Side Lamar. The show that night was Vanessa Peters opening for Lanky at Opening Bell (Still Standard and Pours to me!!!). I’ve been wanting to see Lanky for a long time, and I think I had several near misses where I as able to stay for an earlier act, but not stay for his show. So it was nice to be able to finally see him play.
I would say that Vanessa opened for him, but that isn’t exactly true. She did play first, but instead of 2 shows, they did a tag team series of 4 short sets. That is, she went first and played for 40 mins or so, then Lanky played for 40 and repeated that process 2 times. This was pretty cool and let some of the people in the shop who couldn’t stay real late see both artists play. I digress, as usual. What was I talking about? Oh yea! Vanessa! Cute blond with a guitar, how could I forget? Vanessa’s style is pretty traditional folk I would say. Poetry with simple guitar accompaniment She played an old REM cover, at one point that was a crowd favorite, but overall her style is old school folk. Her sound was interesting because many of her songs didn’t have a lot of inflection (not monotone, but not much vocal movement) but she really does have a broad range in her voice and in some songs she really showed that off. Her song Little Films was a little bit more rocky, and really fun to listen to. Some of her other songs almost hypnotize you into a state of comfort. She was very enjoyable to listen to, and you could really tell she enjoys what she is doing.
I only made it through the first of Lanky’s sets, but I’m glad that I didn’t miss it. His style is a little more rocky/pop/acoustic, and his performance was very well tuned. I’m not sure how long he has been playing or performing, but on stage he came across as someone who really knew what they were doing, and someone who was comfortable making great live music in front of the crowd. This freakn’ drives me crazy, because his voice reminds me of someone you would know… but I cant place it. He reminds me a lot of Patrick Ryan Scott (but most of you wouldn’t know him). Regardless, his music was very refined, and his performance was great.
I think you would enjoy either of these artists if they were in your area. Of course, if you are ever looking for a cool little coffee shop (that also sells beer and wine!), and listen to some free live music make sure to check out Opening Bell on the bottom floor of South Side Lamar. Pascale and the gang will take good care of you!
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