So last night, I found myself especially pumped at the Bowery Ballroom. If you’ve never heard of this venue or have no idea where it is, have no fear: it’s in New York City. That’s right, I am on the East Coast this week blogging about a band… that #1, totally transcends coasts and #2, you really need to check out. With a sound so sweet and fuzzy it’d make cotton candy blush, Vivian Girls seriously rocked house.
Yes, it’s an all girl indie band. Yes, it’s catchy noise-rock with surfy twang. And yes, it’s rad. Vivian Girls deliver ultra-short, ultra-peppy numbers like “Wild Eyes” and “Second Date.” Most of the songs clocked in at under two minutes, but the audience didn’t care. I know a lot of people are making a big deal about the 80’s becoming cool again, but at a Vivian Girls show the cool kids are definitely the ones who look like they’re from 1991 Seattle.
Kickball Katy on bass kept the songs fun and grounded, while adding a certain cool-cat vibe to things. Ali Koehler’s frenetic drumming made me wonder if she had been injecting Redbull before the show (which made for great dance beats) and Cassie Ramone was all about her wall-of-noise guitar. They were rad chicks covered in tattoos and brought a super fun vibe to the room. The absolute best was the last number, “Tell the World.” Half way through, Ramone put down her guitar (while it was still reverbating) and started playing Katy’s bass. Katy, without missing a beat (literally) took over Koehler’s drumkit. And since Ramone’s guitar was still echoing noise, Koehler could take it over. They all switched instruments without interrupting the freaking song!
After these girls switched instruments, they proceeded to rock house even more. Koehler even started playing the guitar with one of her drumsticks. Without a doubt, Vivian Girls met their badass quota for the night. So to all you Angelino’s out there, check out their myspace, listen to their stuff, and mark your calendar for when they come to Los Angeles!
-Rachel K.
Tags: Bowery Ballroom New York City, Vivian Girls
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