Tag: The Sharp Things

Best Concert Albums of 2014

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The Nines “Nine Lives”

An essential concert album this year, The Nines frontman Steve Eggers visits his discography and throws in a few extras. The recording is clear and gives an excellent representation of the live experience, right down to the shaky vocal warble that opens on “It Hurts You.” Steve has combined numerous live performances from around Toronto (most recorded at Poor Alex Theatre) and other areas into a cohesive concert experience.

Special guests include Mike Viola (Candy Butchers) playing guitar and Andy Reed (American Underdog) playing bass, both sing backing vocals on the song “Virginia.” In addition, seven tracks have never been released before, so you’ll get much more than a greatest hits compilation. As far as newer tracks “Falling Down” is an emotional and resonant highlight, tracking the aftermath of a bitter breakup. Eggers creatively mines territory similar to Billy Joel (“Average Joe”) and Ben Folds (“Gord’s Life,”) each time bringing us along his melodic journey. For those who want a taste of the excitement at a Nines concert, here you go. Get it at CD Baby

Lannie Flowers “Live in NYC”

CD Baby | Amazon

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The Sharp Things “Live At Galapagos Art Space “

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Live Concert Albums: Lannie Flowers and The Sharp Things

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Lannie Flowers “Live in NYC”
I’ve been a huge advocate for Texas popster Lannie Flowers over the years, and his new live concert album is perfect for fans. It selects songs from the current discography, and in a live setting has that spontaneity and energy that the studio tracks lack, improving each song like “Come On Girl” and “Give Me A Chance” as well as a great cover of Big Star’s “Back Of A Car.” The set was recorded at The Trash Bar in Brooklyn on November 19, and the band is really tight here. This is also the closest thing to a Lannie Flowers “Greatest Hits” LP, so if you’ve never listened before this is an excellent place to start.

CD Baby | Amazon

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The Sharp Things “Live At Galapagos Art Space ”
Perry Serpa’s orchestral pop creation The Sharp Things was crammed onto the small stage at Brooklyn’s Galapagos Art Space last September.  The live environment allows all the players to add even more personality to the sprawling musical epics and detailed arrangements. The great thing about this concert is most of it is posted on You Tube. The performances have a warmth seldom seen and its highly recommended. Check out the excellent “Goodbye To Golders Green” and “An Ocean Part Deux.”

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Sidney York and The Sharp Things

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Sidney York

Sidney York “<3” EP
Canadian band Sidney York is the musical collaboration between opera singer Brandi Sidoryk and bassoonist Krista Wodelet. Combine the quirkiness of a Zooey Deschanel with the power of a PJ Harvey or Katy Perry and you get the idea. The opening single “Dick and Jane” is super catchy and “Hearts” is another great tune that lingers in your head. The combo of synths and layered instrumentation along with the Brandi’s pitch perfect vocals make this duo a band to keep your eye on.

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Sidney York

The Sharp Things “The Truth Is Like The Sun“
Brooklyn-based chamber pop band the Sharp Things already made a statement with Green is Good early last year. The first half of this album is a grand choral starting with “Can’t Get Started”  and the folk sing along ballad “Lulubelle” set the mood. It gets soulful on “Flesh and Bone,” with the rich instrumentation and multi-part harmonies. The earnest songwriting draws from influences like Pet Sounds, Elton John and Carole King.

Lead vocalist Perry Serpa is now surrounded by an ensemble that makes these songs work. “The Last Hymn” has a wonderful prayer-like quality similar to The Association. Other than the obligatory rocker “Playing The Benelux,” the band is happy to radiate the feel good romantic vibe (“Light in My Harbor.”)  Even the finale “All My Love To You” has a late Beatles “Let It Be” styled piano intro. Feel the love and listen in.