Ok, so I didn't know much (ok, nada) about London's electro-rock band The Big Pink (named after The Band's debut album, though their style is a far cry from The Band's Dylanesque rootsiness) before yesterday, but considering they sold out a show in Austin, TX, I think it's safe to say we'll be seeing a lot more of these guys in the States. In fact, they're playing Coachella next weekend.
Prior to the show, Roxwel shot 101X's Toby Ryan interviewing Milo Cordell (who has the most beautiful eyes, btw). Unfortunately, I didn't catch much of what was discussed in the interview due to some distracting overhead noise, but I do recall Toby asking Milo if playing in the band felt like work. I believe the conclusion he came to was actually pretty inconclusive though. I always wonder what it's like for artists to be able to do what they love and love what they do. Regardless if it does feel like "work," it's a really kickass job - and I think that's all you can ask for because we've all got bills to pay!
Anyhoo, I thought the show was a lot of fun. Though I dig most genres (and we could get into a whole philosophical argument as to whether genres are even relevant anymore), I typically prefer high-energy beat or jam-based music that's super dance-y. If only 75% of the audience wasn't standing with their feet planted firmly to the floor, that would've been way cooler. But what else can you do besides ever so suavely (and sometimes not) work your way towards the front into a good spot and just get into your own groove? So that's what I did, and I felt many-a-bad and good vibes as I did. Hey, at least it was somewhat balanced (thank you to the tall dude who noticed me attempting to peer above him and ever so kindly let me slide in front. And tiss to the frowny-faced, nostril-snaring chick that seriously wouldn't budge to let me get by to an open spot - I won, though :-) Sorry for stepping on your feet...ok, not really).
The band played for about an hour, which, of course, was somewhat disappointing (and it took me that whole time to get close to the front), but with one album - A Brief History of Love, released September 14, 2009 - I guess you can't expect much more than that. Milo and Robbie Furze (the "official" Big Pink members) were joined on stage by Akiko Matsuura and Leopold Ross. And, let me just say that I lovelovelove it when an all-dude band sprinkles in an edgy female drummer (think The Black Angels, and, ironically, I got a psychedelic vibe from The Big Pink at times) - it adds dimension and what's that....pizzazz? Also, I find the whole hooded on-stage thing very mysterious and attractive, Milo. Just sayin' ;-)
Ultimately, I say check 'em out if you get the chance. You'll be sure to have "dominos dominos!" stuck in your head for days. And with several accolades from NME and Pitchfork - and opening gigs for the likes of Muse - there will definitely be more hits to come for The Big Pink.
Also, check back on Roxwel for the video interview and live footage from the show...coming soon!