OZ Beat: Music That Matters

YYYs show in NYC

Saw one of the best YYYs shows so far. I’ve only seen them twice so this will make number three, but I must admit I was kind of looking forward to this show only for the fact that I was lucky enough to get a chance to see them in NYC. Started the set with the hidden track off Fever To Tell and that’s when I had to run all the way around the back of the room and off to the side for a better view. My sound wasn’t so hot standing off to the side, but I saw Karen the whole time parading her transparent glitter bodysuit, pink fuzzy boa, complete with leather belted bikini bottoms to match.

YYYs / The Liars

The Fireside Bowling Alley where they played is a total shithole. That being said, the YYYs did a perfect set. Things got switched and they ended up opening for The Liars. Karen, who has been having voice problems) was in great form. The sound was excellent and still hard to believe all that was happening with a guitar, a drum, and a voice that is the first great new women's voice of this century. On top of that, Karen is completely down to earth, easy to talk to, and really enjoys being in the crowd after the show not just talking—but getting to know people. She was standing by the merch booth and posing for pics with everybody. I told her that Conrad Keely called the YYYs the best band in the US today--and I could see why--she just blushed. (No I don't think they are the best band in the US today--but they performed as if they were). Great guitar and drums--but it is all about her presence and that great fucking voice. Didn't seem possible for The Liars to follow the YYYs set--but they did with a very tight--non self-indulgent set--that was less performance art than stuff I had seen by them and very about the music and pleasing the crowd. I didn't realize what a really fine band The Liars are. Prosiacs opened with a set that won over the room. I wasn't familiar with them at all. It was just a great night for NYC bands in Chicago last night. But--I left thinking I would follow Karen anywhere. It's been awhile since I have felt like being anybody's groupie. Also--the YYYs have material every bit as strong (some stronger) than what is on the EP. Karen did this very cool (almost love ballad) song that I can't get out of my head. Great night, great music--shit venue. Kids in Chicago deserve better—but it is the only place in town for under 18s--and it was very cool to see the much younger kids out in force and supporting this new music. Both Chicago YYYs/Liars shows sold out. Just announced—McLusky is playing Chicago on November 7 as part of the US tour.
--Dem

Liars / Von Bondies / Ikara Colt / Yeah Yeah Yeahs

I guess you heard about The Von Bondies and the YYYs which are said to be excellent on stage. Two great albums. YYYs went back in studio recently to register new songs. Their album is quite short but really worthwhile. Karen O is amazing.

Check out also Ikara Colt. This is a really good band, a bit like McLusky from Scotland. I guess Ikara Colt comes from London, they sound a bit like sonic youth… they are excellent… You can download their whole album on Kazaa or Audiogalaxy.

I also heard about the Liars who are said to be awesome on stage. Does anyone know them? I haven't heard anything yet.
--Suzel
[France]