[Concert] The Walkmen @ 930 Club 9/22

I went into last nights concert with only a handful of songs and endless positive reviews about The Walkmen's live show. I have slept on their albums for so long, but couldn't pass up a chance to hear the local D.C. boys at one of my favorite venues. For the most part, they lived up to their reputation as a great live act. Lead-singer Hamilton is a revelation, its amazing that he still has vocal chords the way he pours everything into each note. Red-faced and neck veins pulsing he delivers every-day lyrics about "waiting on the subway line, waiting for the train to arrive" with such intense urgency that you'd think it was the last train he'd ever catch.

A few new songs were featured and Hamilton seemed to be hinting at a new album sometime in the near future. One which I imagine will be titled "Angela" was a straight forward rocker typical of their older stuff and another had elements of country-folk that seemed to be exploring new territory with lyrics that promised "better things to come". It was a definite standout.

I guess my only complaint about the performance is that Hamilton takes up too much space on stage. I certainly don't doubt their musicianship (especially Matt Barrick on drums, incredible), but they spend too much time on the periphery. Hamilton, sporting his somewhat iconic leather jacket and red flannel, even stands out visually against the rest of the band wearing pastel button-down uniforms. It'd be nice to see some of the other players draw the spotlight and make it feel more like a "band" than a solo act with backing instruments. Nevertheless, a small crack in an otherwise solid show.

mp3:The Walkmen - The Rat
mp3:The Walkmen - In The New Year (Live)