Bows & Arrows

Thursday night I saw the Walkmen at the 9:30. I was super excited to see them perform, having spent the coming days memorizing their latest album. Their sound is unique. One of the many unique elements is the singer's voice. On the album he uses a similar vocal technique as Bob Dylan - a dry, raspy, no-tone sing/shouty thing. Being familiar with this delivery I was shocked to hear him live. He did this shouting/screaming, contorting thing while he looked like he was fighting his internal organs to make his voice come out of him. At first sight, it was rather disturbing and many people exchanged glances. After the first couple of songs he dialed down the intensity and it all came together in a glorious racket. That crazy organ they use - another one of their unique elements - sounded so amazing live. All & all it was a great show and a good evening.