Frightened Rabbit / Maps & Atlases @ Webster Hall

After what seemed to be the longest week, i.e. no shows, in history, I finally return with a truly great show.  I arrived early to Webster Hall to claim my place up front to catch Maps & Atlases and Frightened Rabbit, two bands I had heard great things about but had little exposure to.  Oddly enough, this was my first trip to Webster Hall that involved bands that played instruments and not a turntable or electronic equipment; see D.I.M. and Simian Mobile Disco.  But by all accounts, this show was just as fun and just as entertaining.

Actually, the first band to perform was Bad Veins, a duo from Cincy who played a short but pleasing set.  When Maps & Atlases finally took stage, the crowd had grown to three-quarter capacity and a sense of anticipation was in the air.  I have to admit, they were quite good.  There was no lazy strumming in this band; each member playfully plucking and carefully picking each chord to create a vibrant landscape of melodies.  Don't get me wrong, they were having a good time but it was obvious the structure of each song was very calculated.  Look out for their upcoming release, Perch Patchwork, due out this June.  All in all, a good set.

Not to be outdone, Scotland's own Frightened Rabbit stormed the stage with their brand of indie rock that filled the concert hall with catchy anthems and an accessible, well-rounded sound.  The quintet was playing in support of their third studio album, The Winter of Mixed Drinks, but it was obvious by the crowd reactions and singalongs that this show was all about their past hits.  From the constant hand claps to a sometimes egregious singing fan (standing behind me), this show was a lot of fun and introduced me to a great fan base and an even greater band.  I would definitely catch them while they're in the States and would definitely give The Winter of Mixed Drinks a listen (as well as their older but equally as good material).  A great show all around.  Videos of the show are below:









enjoy.
Frightened Rabbit / Maps & Atlases @ Webster Hall Frightened Rabbit / Maps & Atlases @ Webster Hall Reviewed by Scott Rowe, Editor on April 30, 2010 Rating: 5
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