Karkwa photo by Jack Jeffries
Karkwa / Arlene’s Grocery / October 22nd
With members of the Canadian consulate in attendance, Said The Whale Kicked off the Canadian showcase at Arlene’s Grocery on the Lower East Side. Proving without a doubt that CMJ Marathon is an international event, vocalists Ben Worcester and Tyler Bancroft pointed out “We don’t get winter in British Columbia.” Between their straight-ahead indie rock style and sea-swept ballads, Bancroft held up a hand: “You know what this means? It means ‘Don’t Walk,’” eliciting some chuckles from the New York audience. By their final song, the refrain “We’ve got so much love for you all” felt downright honest.
After Said The Whale, Quebecois band Karkwa hit the stage, bringing a dark, spotless shimmer to the evening. The band’s been around for ten years now, and their professionalism really shone. A second percussionist spearheaded the group’s driving rhythms and twisted chord progressions, while some ringing keyboard hits backed up the gigantic build-ups and epic endings.
Other bands that night included Shad, The Midway State, and Hey Rosetta! Did I mention there was free pizza before the bands? I love Canada.
[gabnews : Thanks to Chloé and LJ]
Jeu de briques
Snake
Pacman
Bubble