Grizzly Bear + Here We Go Magic at The Fillmore

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“Ready, Able”

I can’t emote enough about Grizzly Bear.  I truly believe they are one of the seminal bands of our time and will inspire a generation of musicians to come.  And they’re so young! But oh so talented.  Each of them playing a multitude of instruments and contributing vocally to their beautiful, ethereal harmonies.  The sound they create is simply symphonic. Their instrumental and vocal arrangements are so beautiful, well-crafted and of such far grander proportions I have a hard time lumping them into the category of ‘indie rock.’

As much as I love Grizzly Bear, as was just as excited to see Here We Go Magic. On the album, Luke Temple’s voice is on par with that of Ed Droste.  In person, there’s absolutely no comparison.  Mr. Droste wins hands down. I was actually quite disappointed with Here We Go Magic.  Their album is great, it just didn’t translate live for me.

So with that, I’ll leave you with a video I captured from the show. It wasn’t until later did I learn that you’re not supposed to do that. I didn’t know!  I don’t get to The Fillmore much.  I usually stick to the smaller venues and shoot video no problem. It just seems a shame to let it go to waste.  So I put it here with the pinky promise that – cross my heart, hope to die, stick a needle in my eye -I will never ever shoot video at The Fillmore again.

In Anticipation: Grizzly Bear – Veckatimest

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Listen to “Cheerleader” :

Grizzly Bear‘s forthcoming release, Veckatimest, is due out May 26 and is easily one of the most anticipated albums so far this year.  On par with the buzz of Animal Collective’s Merriweather Post Pavillion.  After seeing them perform their new work at The Central Presbyterian Church in Austin, TX at SXSW, I fully understand why.  It was one of the most beautiful performances I’ve seen and left me with goosebumps.  I too cannot wait for this album to come out.  Add me to the list of eager fans counting down the days.

The band is touring extensively in support of the new album.  Be sure to check their MySpace page for the latest tour info. For San Francisco-based readers, they will be performing at The Fillmore on June 21, 2009 with Here We Go Magic.  A fantastic line up!

Pre-order the album direct from the band.