Parry Adams at Webster Hall

When trying to decide what to say after seeing Parry Adams open for Lucy Woodward at the Studio at Webster Hall, it was hard to form complete sentences. Words definitely came to mind, even full phrases, but I couldn’t string them together into sentences that flowed together into anything that would give you an idea of what this show was like and make you immediately plan to attend her next event. Maybe a little mystery is good, though. Maybe it will make you even more intrigued, make you want to go even more.

So where to begin?

Maybe with the crowd. It was silent and attentive. It only spoke when appropriate. It clearly loved her. True, some of them were likely friends, but others were friends and fans for the other two performers. They still respected her, still gave her the attention she deserved, and some even went to speak to her after the show and share just how much they enjoyed her set.

And how about that set?

I’ve seen Parry both solo and with a band. Both are different experiences. One thing that always stands out is her voice. It’s strong and amazing. She might have been charmingly nervous in between sets, but her singing was always strong and confident. (And if she rambled any on stage, like I said, it came off as charming).

I’ll have to admit, I haven’t listened to the album yet, but I plan to after tonight’s performance. Might even write a review for that too. Who knows? And I will definitely be going to another show, if the opportunity presents itself. I recommend that you plan to as well.

(Parry Adams does ocassional uStream concerts, where you can get the live experience from the comfort of your own home. Her next one is March 22nd.)

Titus Andronicus + Free Energy Take Webster Hall By Storm

Saturday, September 25, 2010 – Tutus Andronicus and Free Energy played a fun and energy charged set at Webster Hall. First, Screaming Females opened to a decent crowd – at least considering they were the opener AND hadn’t been able to promote the date much. The fans who were there early enough seemed to enjoy them. I had heard of the band before but didn’t know much of their music. Even so, I enjoyed their set and wouldn’t mind seeing them again.

Next Free Energy came up to bat. I had seen these guys once before (performing with Jukebox the Ghost) and was really impressed. In fact, the combination of them and Titus was what made me interested enough to want to attend this event. They did not disappoint and were just as energetic as I remember them being. I said it in a past review, but they really do live up to their name. I almost bought their CD after an outstanding set, but limited funds told me I should hold off for now. I definitely will be following this band more closely in the future, however.

The final act for the evening was Titus Andronicus. If I thought Free Energy’s set was intense, that was nothing compared to the energy levels for the headliner. The band had a good stage presence and did a good job feeding off the energy from the crowd. At one point a string broke on the lead’s guitar (after some fierce playing on the previous song) and the singer decided to re-string it instead of using another instrument. He kept the audience entertained with stories and fan interaction. This included talking about his parents and proclaiming, “Mothers are special people.” Other life lessons received on this break included, Patience is a virtue,” followed by, “So is temperance.” Lessons we can all live by – although I’m sure the bar would prefer you save your temperance for another day. The night concluded with Titus and Free Energy combining to form one giant super group. The group agreed on stage they would be called Temporary Tattoos, since one member had gotten everyone temp tattoos before. They sang AC/DC’s hit “It’s A Long Way To The Top” to finish the night. There was no encore, but I thought the way they ended it was perfect as it was.