The Weeks, Death on Two Wheels, A: The Color, Big Jesus, Junior Astronomers
The Masquerade – 7.27.11
A show like this was too good to be true and then the day of it was announced that Death on Two Wheels were playing as well. I couldn’t believe all the talent that was showcased in one night; it wasn’t a show to miss. A majority of the bands are signed to the same label, Favorite Gentlemen, and with a recently announced band joining the family it was a good opportunity to bring everyone together.
Big Jesus played first and they were one of the main reasons I was there. Even though this was only their 3rd live show, Big Jesus is probably going to the band I will look forward to seeing every time they are in town because this show really impressed me. Many songs off their first self titled EP were played loudly but also new songs from their forthcoming release “Big Jesus II”. The new songs were great and even heavier than their old material. A special treat was Dan Gleason, keyboardist from the band Death on Two Wheels, filled in on guitar and he was so into the music like he was playing for his own band. Big Jesus’ music is full of power and they are really explosive on stage. This set hyped me up and it was a great start to the night.
Junior Astronomers, an indie rock band from Charlotte, NC was up next. I had never heard of them until earlier that week when it was announced they were signed to Favorite Gentlemen. I was interested to see what they were like live and they brought it all to that stage. They have a very fun positive stage presence that I couldn’t help but dance along with the band but also there were moments when the lyrics moved me because they were so real. They are a great addition to the already amazing Favorite Gentleman.
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A: The Color, the band that needs no introduction, were third on the bill and also featured the talented drummer from Dropsonic. I have seen A: The Color live countless times and they bring something different every time. They are such a hard working band and even though they don’t have a permanent drummer they have various drummers from other Atlanta bands play along with them. I think it challenges them as a band and will also be an advantage once they find the right drummer. It keeps their live shows fresh and original even though they are playing the same songs. A: The Color plays music that is so addicting it seems to run through my veins and as soon as they finish playing I can’t wait to see them again. If you like classic rock and roll goodness with a uniqueness that is memorable and incredibly cool you want to check out A: The Color.
The Weeks is the only band not label mates with the rest of the musicians playing but they were definitely honorary members for the evening. They were a good addition to the diverse yet outstanding line up with their somber tunes. My favorite part of their set was the TV on the Radio cover of “Wolf Like Me” it was an unexpected surprise but they performed it well and had the guys from Junior Astronomers on stage playing away on their instruments too. The Weeks will be opening up for the iconic Meat Puppets this September.
Death on Two Wheels decided to be sneaky and announce just hours before the show that they were playing. The band has been taking time off from touring to record their new album but decided to do some surprise shows all over Atlanta. They started at the Masquerade and it was so cool to get a taste of their new material. I like the direction they are going with their new album, they are super talented and play from the heart you just can’t help but enjoy watching them live. Death on Two Wheels played the Vinyl and also the Star Bar the next two nights.
I couldn’t have asked for a better night with great bands and great company. Support your favorite bands!
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