Starting the year off right

Last Saturday brought Boy’s Night Out which meant a noise rock show at the Steynberg Gallery. Strangely enough, the crowd was rather decently sized as Indian Jewelry headlined the show coming off of an extensive tour. Additionally surprising was that this was one of the best shows that I’ve seen in a while.

Local act Meal opened up the show. Their set was less noisy and more drum-driven than when I’ve seen them before and overall it turned out much better. The set was followed by the first La Maison show since summer.

People then shook off their earplugs as Indian Jewelry began to set-up the stage. In addition to their regular equipment, red lights and strobes were scattered throughout the equipment, which caused the area to already seem frenetic and disorienting. What followed was a mix of wild tribal drumming, guitar blasts, keyboards and noise. Thinking somewhere along the lines of Animal Collective meets dance party lighting scheme would give you the best idea of this.

The most enthralling part of the performance had to be guitarist/synth player Erika Thrasher, who switched back and forth with the band’s other guitarist. Her time on guitar saw her slamming hard into the instrument while the other members built loud sounds around her. Let’s face it: hot girl in a primal band is amazingly hot especially when the music is this enthralling.

The show was definitely a great performance to start the year off with. It has also set the tone. Steynberg Gallery has become the new place for all-ages independent shows as it provides one of the best artistic environments in town. In addition, a good turnout for a winter break show holds promise for an enlarging scene.

Show tip: The F–ing Champs and Citay will be playing at the Steynberg Gallery at 8 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $10 at the door. I promise you this: it will be loud. So very, very loud. And so very, very wonderful. Freedom will also perform.

In addition, if you are a music fan, you may be interested in becoming a DJ. Applications for KCPR are at the station right now and are due Friday, Jan. 19. The station is in the Graphic Arts building, room 201.