As many of you know, I recently moved away from Portland but last night, I got to go back just for a little while. Things have been difficult lately but last night, I drove up to the beautiful city of San Francisco and saw a wonderful band from PDX called Talkdemonic.
At a little bar just off the freeway, a couple friends and I sat down just after the doors opened only to find out that there were two opening bands that sucked. We walked down to a local coffee shop, drank hot chocolate and talked about Bruce Campbell movies. The band went on at about 11:30, which is too late for me these days, but it was entirely worth it. Last year, Talkdemonic released what I believe to be the best record of 2006 called ‘Beat Romantic’. The 36-minute piece is simply one of the most interesting, wonderful records I can imagine. Despite it’s lack of vocal work (the band is entirely instrumental), the record stands as one of the most lyrical available. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
However, the band’s set consisted of about 70% new material that sounds even better than ‘Beat Romantic’, which is terribly difficult to accomplish. It is more spirited, more calculated and deeply realized. To my friends in Portland, Talkdemonic is playing at the Aladdin on the 17th.
GO SEE TALKDEMONIC AT THE ALADDIN ON THE SEVENTEENTH OF JULY. IF YOU DON’T GO, YOU ARE AN IDIOT.
It’s not really as harsh as all that, but the band thrives not only on brilliant songwriting and live execution. There is something really special that you simply must see them live to experience. There’s something about the way they look when they’re playing. There’s something about the way they look at each other that makes very special music even more affecting. Go see them. They deserve it, and so do you. Treat yourself. Also, if you don’t have their record, come on.
I believe I will see that show. The Aladdin is my favorite Portland venue. I was super bummed when the M. Ward show got moved to the Crystal.
Now you may understand my bitterness toward the recent change in the MPPA line-up. When Eve was ruling the cello, it was always entertaining to witness the exchanges between Matt and her when they performed live. However, she left the band (my wife’s very legitimate theory is that Matt’s infatuation may have remained too strong on alcohol and perhaps drugs) and although fantastic music continues to come from the band, the live show has changed. Let’s hope this doesn’t occur to Talkdemonic.
I agree strongly with you, my Ryan: Talkdemonic is a surprisingly (due to newness to the “scene”) accomplished live band.
What a cute little post.
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I think the most recent entry would appeal to all three of you. Or something. I don’t know. I guess I just want someone to read it, since I’m writing stuff.
Miss you Portland (and Bay Area) kids. Will see you on Friday!
There should be absolutely no shame in this wonderful plug. You are an excellent plugger. Plog (Plug+Blog…+Pog) away, Matt. Anxious to see you and your gearth on Friday.
There is no happiness like that of being loved by your these returning vnhxtrrpczayd was very pleasant or desirable no magnet drew me.
That was an admirably incoherent comment, Rebecca.