The National w/ Buke and Gass at First Ave. 7/16/09

The National was at First Ave. last night, two days before their date with the Pitchfork Music Festival in Chicago.  It was the first time seeing them live.  Surprising, since I am a big fan of Boxer (their self-titled album and Alligator are also extremely good).  The live vocals are what really blew me away, as Matt Berninger is as good in person, as recorded.  They also had a much better stage presence than I was expecting…I pictured a much more laid back performance pre-show.  This pertained to their sound as well, with a lot more “rock” than I was planning on.  That wasn’t necessarily a bad thing, just different.  Another great show at First Ave…hopefully they’re back with a new album soon.

Buke and Gass opened the show, another Brooklyn band…surprise.  Their name derives from the two custom instruments used.  The Buke is an electric, 6-string, ukulele…the Gass?  A guitar, bass, hybrid.  I thoroughly enjoyed the set, and would probably best classify B & G as experimental indie rock (someone correct me if you think differently).  Not too much material to write about as of now, but since they’ve only been together since 2008, I’m sure that’s soon to change.