One of the main questions that I mulled prior to Grizzly Bear’s performance at Town Hall this past Friday was simply, “Will they be able to do Veckatimest justice in a live setting?” Then they brought in a string quartet, turned the stage into a magical lightshow, and harmonized in perfect pitch. So I suppose the answer is not only a yes but a resounding hell yah (exclamation point).
They started this show off the same as Thursday with “Southern Point” followed by “Cheerleader.” My particular highlight of the evening, besides the obvious choice of single “Two Weeks,” was “Dory” (a favorite track) with the Acme String Quartet. The acoustic encore of “All We Ask” was none too shabby either.
I do happen to disagree with Ben Ratliff though, as I much prefer Ed Droste’s voice to Daniel Rossen’s and wanted to hear more from Droste. The way his vocals swell and crescendo is truly stunning. (This is not to demean Rossen in any way as he is a stellar vocalist as well, it is just a matter of personal preference.) Also, unlike Ratliff, I really enjoyed the show and left humming the tracks rather than grinding my teeth. With this band, I am able to sit back, relax, and admire how they all work together in such an intricate manner. You have to really allow yourself to be carried away and if fault is discovered, I would be so bold as to suggest it might lay with the listener. I know this sounds a bit presumptious, but it’s only because my own love for the band is so strong I can’t imagine disliking anything they do.
The stand-out of the night for me was without a doubt Christopher Bear. While venues I attend are often floor shows with a limited view of the kit (I’m a rather small lady), my balcony seats found me unable to tear my eyes off the drummer. He was so fantastic and has a very distinct delicate touch. Also, the fact that the group took the look of the show itself into account, with a very coordinated display of lighting, was quite a treat for me. The jarred lights really did give off a New England-type feel, which of course was fitting. (Veckatimest is the name of a small island off Cape Cod that inspired the album.)
Several regrets. I wish I had gone to the show on Thursday night too as I missed the Brooklyn Youth Choir. I wish I had gone to seen the show at the Music Hall of Williamsburg for a more intimate viewing. Basically I just wish I had spent the whole of the weekend following Grizzly Bear around. It would have been an excellent way to spend my time.
