Monday, September 17, 2012

Tallest Man on Earth; Fox Theatre Oakland; September 5th, 2012


My first concern when Kristian Matsson, the man behind Tallest Man on Earth, steps out onto the stage at the beautiful Fox Theatre Oakland, is that the show I’m about to witness will be boring. Now, don’t get me wrong, I am a huge fan of Tallest Man on Earth’s subtle lyrical genius, and absolute finesse with a guitar. My fear lies in the idea of seeing one guy, on a stage, all alone, with only his voice and guitar to entertain us for over an hour. It becomes clear as the first song begins though, that my fears are unfounded. Kristian Matsson has the presence of an entire band, the voice of a man three times his size, and the energy of a daycare center full of children hopped up on sugar. Every song is a completely different experience. Moments of boundless energy and happy lyrics, flow into pieces of melancholy instrumentals and lyrics that would break the heart of the coldest of people. Matsson illustrates a complete control of his craft, but also of the audience he holds in his hands, keeping us all wrapped up in a lyrical journey, as he turns each page, keeping us on the edges of our seats. 

Monday, September 3, 2012

Song Picks for the Week : 09.03.12-09.09.12

Song: Agnes 
Artist: Johnny Flynn 
Album: Been Listening

Song: Tiny Cities Made Of Ashes 
Artsist: Modest Mouse 
Album: The Moon & Antarctica

Song: How 
Artist: Regina Spektor 
Album: What We Saw From The Cheap Seats

Song: Fernando 
Artist: Jenny Lewis 
Album: Acid Tongue

Song: Fire 
Artist: Childish Gambino 
Album: Sick Boi