December 3, 2009
#50 See three local bands we’ve never heard of (1/3)
My parents, with their newly empty nest-status, have become something of a party couple. When they’re up north at their cabin, they rock out at Ma Deeter’s. Never mind the smoke or the awful karaoke — they love it.
Last week, they visited for Thanksgiving. After we went to “The Santaland Diaries” on Friday night, mom still wanted to party. I had suggested seeing Natty Nation at the High Noon Saloon, but P was convinced that would take too long (and be out too late for my dad, who drowses off early). We ended up at Mickey’s because it was a short walk from the house and I had heard a friend’s band, the Shabelles, was going to be playing. Sexy fries and no cover? I’m there.
Unfortunately, the Shabelles played last, and the band we did see, Sylvia Beach, didn’t start until after 11. P left after two songs, citing ear pain. My ears hurt too, but in our spots at the bar, I felt completely trapped. When other people left, the lead singer commented on their leaving, saying “our other songs are better!” Awkward.
Also: he was wrong. Sylvia Beach was poorly balanced, out of tune and any lyrics were completely intelligible. It was kind of awful. I liked the drummer, who looked like he might’ve been on speed (dad kept saying, “that drummer was SOMETHING!”) but the next time I see Sylvia Beach is playing somewhere I’ll give that place a very wide berth.
