I often wonder if bands intentionally f^ck with LA crowds. In a demented way, I hope they do. The Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, National, and Richard Swift show at the Troubadour last weekend was one the most highly anticipated show to roll through town in a long while, and Clap Yo Hands is one of the hottest bands in the country right now. So, why not start off your set with three songs that haven’t been released. I loved it, especially since I had a good idea that the third track, “Graceful Retreat”, was gonna be followed by “Is this Love”. Thanks that is to listening to their live set on KCRW
One song that most people knew was all it took to get the place hopping. Since Timothy and I rolled up early we got some good spots up front. Being on the side of the stage i had the angle to see my other compatriots on the other side getting their groove on. The 10 track set was a bit abbreviated but sure did pack a punch. There’s only one CD out with 12 songs on it so you can’t expect too much more. The end of their set coincided with the end of the album. “Gimme Some Salt” mellowed it out a bit before ripping into “Upon this Tidal Wave of Young Blood”. Kinda fitting ending with the lines “AMERICA PLEASE HELP THEM, they are child stars….with their sex, and there drugs and their rock and rock and roll”. At least they had their audience dialed in.
The National was the headliner for the night but it was pretty obvious most people had only heard Clap Yo Hands. Most, but not all, like the guy on the in the green Clap Your Hands shirt on the other side of the stage who was rocking out and singing along to all the tracks of The Nationals newest LP, Alligator. Before they went on I was telling the girl next to us that the music was darker and not as energetic. I love forgetting how much I like bands, then when they start playing, it’s instantly comes rushing back and you’re singing along to every song. After roaring through “Secret Meeting” and “Abel” I thought they had got through their rockers. A couple tracks later I completely lost it while they rocked “Mister November”. It’s three days later and my neck still hurts from headbanging to that song. I guess when you’re already loose, why stop.
The night began with Richard Swift. We all like Richard around these parts. A couple months ago, He opened up for Eisley. I think I remember him saying that night that he was going on a long tour with the band so I guess this show coincided with his return. They did sound a bit more full. Maybe it’s just the realization that making as a “singer/songwriter” these days is bit rough. Much better to rock out then mix in a few slower tracks and balance it all out. He’s got a few great tracks on his site you should check out, including some of the best from this night, “The Novelist” and “Lovely Night”
Hung out for a bit afterwards, slung some cream then wished Mike, the doorman, a happy 50th. Can you believe he’s been there for 23 years? A night that definitely lived up to the hype and then some. Too bad hitting up the show again on Friday wasn’t possible. schucks….
