Russian Circles, Chelsea Wolfe, Marriages 
The Earl – August 14, 2012

Last Tuesday I had a lot of anxiety in anticipation of what ended up being another memorable show and one of my favorites this year.  I knew I was about to see three unbelievably great bands and I was ready to experience another awesome show at The Earl.  I was of course blown away by the opener Marriages, who released one of my favorite albums this year. The crowd responded well to the dark and atmospheric set which included fluid transitions between songs, much like their 2012 release Kitsune.  Even though Dave Turncrantz, of Russian Circles, filled in on drums, this band shows a lot of promise for a successful future and I can’t wait to see them again.

Chelsea Wolfe graced the stage next and it seemed that a good portion of the crowd was there to see her perform.  Wolfe started out her set head down and crouched on the ground in her white and black smock.  She’s like a tortured angel singing to sooth the pain.  Dual guitars provide some heavy moments but her drummer is always very minimal. The listener might be anxiously waiting for the build up to crash but the music rarely does. I was physically and emotionally taken to a different place during Chelsea Wolfe’s set.  It was very therapeutic yet draining all at the same time.  I highly recommend listening to her music and if you are lucky enough, see her perform live.  Both are beautiful experiences.

I have written about how amazing Russian Circles is before but I must say, they are SO good live.  After years and years of touring, you can definitely witness all their hard work and dedication in their live set.  I didn’t attempt to take a picture because by the time they were setting up I kept getting pushed back while the crowd eagerly moved closer to the stage.  They play gut wrenching prog-rock that somehow incorporates softer ambient moments and then turns it way the fuck up. To me, their mission isn’t to be part of a trend but to become a vital part of the modern rock scene.  I will not stop seeing them live as long as they keep playing shows.  This show ended up being sold out by the time Russian Circles played.  It is so good to see people getting out there and enjoying live music.  It is an experience that doesn’t compare to any other.