The Belly of the Beast

Last week I went into the belly of the hipster beast: I saw Death Cab for Cutie in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

First, a word about their new album. Not as clean or instanly likeable as their last, but still very good. Choice cuts: "Your New Twin Sized Bed" and "Grapevine Fires".

The show was at McCarren Park Pool, a lovely outdoor venue that is an old, drained out community pool turned concert space. There wasn't a bad spot in the place - no matter where I stood I could hear and see perfectly, even with the show being sold out.
I walked in late, and the band was in the middle of "No Sunlight" off of the new record. It, and the tracks that followed, stayed pretty close to the album renditions. Then they launched into "I Will Possess Your Heart", the latest single, and everything changed.

It was the extended version, which becomes even more extended live. You know when you're making art - music, theater, cooking, whatever - and you hit that zone where if anyone asked you your name you wouldn't be able to tell them? Where all the sights and sounds around you are gone? They were totally in that space. Ben Gibbard was totally freaking out on the piano - it was quite the sight....and sound. I was in the far, far back and I could feel that energy; I can only imagine what was happening for the folks in the front.

Unfortunately, after that the show went downhill fast. There was a myriad of technical issues leading up to the show ending early because of a horrible wind/thunderstorm that snuck up on what had been a lovely, clear evening. All in all though, it was a good show and worth it even just for those ten minutes of "I Will....". If Death Cab for Cutie is coming to your town, I suggest checking them out. Just hope that rain isn't in the forecast.

Next Week: Amanda Palmer with the Boston Pops!