Record Review: Cut Copy-In Ghost Colours

This album is the epitome of what I needed to start summer. Fully loaded with catchy dance hits, Cut Copy has really outdone themselves this time. Every track on this album is whipped lightly, and prepped perfectly for the French pop sound they are frequently accused of imitating. I disagree with comparison because it implies a simplicity and lack of depth to the music, which is simply not present in this album. The lyrics are catchy, and the beats are fresh. Although their sound is similar from song to song, each song has something different to offer, namely, emotion. This is the most emotive electro pop I can remember hearing, and it shows through in their dynamic live performances. There are some standout tracks from “Lights and Music” which recalls the glory days of the 80’s club era to “Hearts on Fire” which brings back memories of Madonna and slumber parties. If you are a person who even vaguely likes pop, the subdued fun in this album will speak to your inner dance-self. <3 The Elephant

Concert Review: Cut Copy w/Black Kids

Cut Copy, Melbourne

Black Kids, Jacksonville

So I schlepped to Greenpoint. On a Tuesday. Why? Because I couldn't miss this line up: Mobius Band, Black Kids and Cut Copy. I couldn't quite get my shit together to be early, so I missed Mobius Band, which was a major let down (they were holding the line outside, it was sort of absurd). But I will see those guys soon, I'm sure of it.

Black Kids went on around 10:20, and I was struck by how young they look. Brother/sister duo Reggie and Ali Youngblood are an awesome on stage team, although Ali sort of steals the show. With her rich doo-wop vocals, gold AA hot pants and killer dance moves, she was everyone's focus. Her chemistry with keyboardist Dawn Watley is also remarkable, lending a very Supremes-esque flavor to the show. Although their sound is essentially 80's pop-dance, they make it feel new, young and vibrant. Although I wasn't totally feeling it for the first few songs, they broke out "I'll be your Limousine" and I think most of the audience was grooving after that. Although they were a bit sloppy, and the sound quality wasn't perfect, I think these kids had fun, and they are worth checking out.

Much like LCD Soundsystem at Randall's Island, Cut Copy completely stole the show at Studio B. They didn't hesitate about dominating, they just schooled the audience. They came out, and the entire crowd just started dancing. It was a proper indie dance party, the indie dance party of my dreams. It was literally not possible to hold still, the need to move was captivating. Everytime the crowd sort of calmed down, frontman Dan Whitford stepped in. He wasn't going to let us forget that this was the party of the month. Together, he and keyboardist Tim Hoey kept us pulling and alive. It was unstoppable and electrifying. Dynamic. It was easily one of the best shows I have seen in the last two years. I always feel that way after electro dance shows though, because of the adrenaline and sweat. And endorphins. Anyway, if you haven't yet, check out this Aussie band's In Ghost Colours.

<3 the Elephant

p.s. Studio B is hipster heaven. Or vanilla hell.

May Shows

As you may have noticed, May is a great month to be a New Yorker. There are so many great shows coming up, I am already trying to rationalize the impending sleep deprivation. See the calender for some of the shows that I am going to try to catch. Miles Benjamin Anthony Robinson is a record release party for another band, so its already sold out. I am going to attempt to get my hands on a ticket, since after his record drops in July I suspect that he will playing lots of crowded hard ot get into shows. Just a guess. One show I absolutely don't want to miss is Black Kids/Mobius Band/Cut Copy. Another awesome show is going to be Cave Singers, we are already planning on going. I will be updating the calender...but things are a bit crazy at work, so I will do my best to update frequently.


<3 The Elephant