Los Campesinos!, Titus Andronicus. |
When I read Los Campesinos! were coming to the United States AND coming to Florida I fell off the couch. First, Hotpants Romance comes here last year and now Los Campesinos! this year? Pretty cool. Ever since I hear their first EP at WPRK a year and a half ago I thought they were a pretty fun band. That "We Throw Parties You Throw Knives" song was an instant favorite. Since then they evidently got on a hype machine which was a little strange to me that a more "indiepopish" band would get picked up. I know a lot of purists are critical of them (well, more critical of overhype) because they hit all the hot topics and flavor of the month imagery..... robots, skeletons, pirates, cherry-aid, bookshop workers, etc. They cover it and more. And most importantly make a fun record. And to see them live would most likely be over the top goodness.
Los Campesinos! skipped out Orlando so we loaded up the van and headed to Tampa, the city closest to us they would be coming. Opening the show was New Jersey band Titus Andronicus. They were more of 'bromance' bar rock band that the end result sounds like a cross with The Pogues and The Replacements without being as memorable. The music was all right but I didn't take to the vocals or the sloppy keyboard playing of the lead vocalist. They did a Weezer cover that made me want to shoot my face off. I'm not sure who put them on tour with Los Campesinos. I don't see the fit but they get to open the whole tour.
On the other hand Cardiff UK pop band Los Campesinos!, for lack of a better term, ruled. Their albums translate just like they should. Although missing one member (the violinist) they still sounded big when they needed to and quiet when not. Gareth and Alex both had matching glockenspiels and synthesizers (Microkorgs.... sigh) which was a cool touch. In addition Gareth also had a mini drumkit he used throughout the show. The band went through material from both their albums that were released in 2008 'Hold On Now, Youngster' and the newer 'We Are Beautiful, We Are Doomed' including the songs "Death to Los Campesinos!" "My Year In Lists" and newer ones "Miserabilia" and the catchy title track. The audience was dancing just about the whole time but when "You! Me! Dancing!" came on it was no holds barred. Hoppers, jumpers and crowd surfers were one. Overall it was a fun performance, even if they didn't play my favorite song. Great energy, great songs. Thank you Los Campesinos! Maybe next time they can bring Das Wanderlust or Bearsuit. What a great tour that would be. Photos:
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