Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Ben Kweller with the Watson Twins - Cat's Cradle - March 1, 2009

I know, I know… it’s been a while since my last update, but due to circumstances WAY beyond my control, I had to take a little family time followed by the most non-productive week of my life.

I’m starting back with another concert rundown.

I have to give props to the Cat’s Cradle for definitely being one of the best venues in North Carolina. It’s small, it serves Stella Artois, sells old concert posters and most importantly, welcomes incredible bands and artists on a weekly, sometimes daily basis.

To preface this, I wasn’t too familiar with Ben Kweller, although he and his band are amazing musicians; country music isn’t my pretentious-indie-kid forte’.

The show openers, The Watson Twins, were essentially the main reason for attending the show. Having been introduced to the Watson Twins via Jenny Lewis and the Watson Twins’ album, Rabbit Fur Coat, I was instantly intrigued.

Their performance alone was easily worth the drive and money and after a brilliant cover of Bill Withers’ Ain’t No Sunshine, it had to be said, “I’ll take the hot one.”

Despite my limited knowledge of Kweller and his music, he managed to swathe himself in all that is poppy and country, swelling the space with incredibly catchy tunes and a classic country persona. Kweller emits an energy that electrifies a room full of fans and those not yet privileged to be one.

As a known multi-instrumentalist, Kweller only made use of three instruments throughout the night: his guitar, a piano and a harmonica (which was played with one hand while the other played piano). From the ragtime/country fused Gypsy Rose to his exceptionally standard, yet satisfying ballads, Ben Kweller’s show leaves no one unimpressed.

His music, especially that on Changing Horses, may be narrow in scope - his live performance is one that begs for repeat attendees and fans born of his undeniable talent.

www.myspace.com/benkweller

For anyone who cares:

Mar. 13 – Vetiver, Wilmington, NC
Mar. 24 – Third Eye Blind, Wilmington, NC

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