Notes from a Genius

This past week, I went to see The Kills, whom I've been into for several years now, but have not seen live until now. Alison Mosshart's voice is just so incredible, and dare I say, quite sexy. Her throaty growling voice brings the necessary energy for her songs (both with The Kills and The Dead Weather, her project with Jack White). The Kills is essentially a garage rock/bluesy duo music project between her and Jamie Hince. I was immediately attracted to their sound, thanks to the guitars that are very influenced by The Velvet Underground, The Rolling Stones, Fugazi, Nirvana, Sonic Youth, etc. This was probably one of the most energetic shows I've been to in awhile, perhaps because The Kills haven't performed together for a few years now. This was not the first show in Boston, but it was the first one announced, which sold out almost immediately (thankfully I found a presale code). They added a second date in Boston, but it was actually the week prior to Thursday night...

Back at the beginning of this month (May), I went to see M. Ward for the 3rd time. I was a little hesitant this time around, because the past shows were rather mellow and I didn't know if I'd be feeling the music if I wasn't in the mood. The last time I went was with my ex-girlfriend about 2 years ago, and it wasn't the best, most pleasurable experience, so I wanted to go and enjoy it, if I was to go this time around. Then, I got word that the opening act was a new band called NAF (Nice as Fuck) which is Jenny Lewis' (Rilo Kiley) side/new project. I immediately bought a ticket. And, I was not disappointed. First of all, NAF set up on the floor of the small venue and packed the crowd in tightly around them (three ladies including Jenny Lewis). She was amazing and I swear we made eye contact at least 3x because I was right there in the front, not wanting to miss any moment of this show. And then, M. Ward came out and put on an incredible set that was not mellow at all...