The night started out close to eleven as a typical Saturday night in stop and go traffic on the 101 into LA as we (Photographer Drew A. Kelley and I) headed out to the Echoplex. We were running late but hoping to make it in time to see the up-and-coming band These New Puritans. If the band name doesnt sound familiar their music might because their song Navigate, Navigate was remixed for Dior Hommes Fall 2007 runway show.
We arrived about a quarter to midnight; trying to find parking took forever, but as soon as we did we took off hoping that it wasnt too late. According to the doormen the band was just about ready to start. Thank goodness for bands never starting on time right? By the time we got in, TNP were just stepping onto the stage. The place had a crowd, but when I say crowd it is without the ed. There was an eclectic mix of people from young to old, but it wasnt the age that made it different, it was the type of people. Some of the kids had the almost painted on jeans and some had pants that barely stayed on.
Now about the music, well lets say that theyre different and something special. It sounds like electronic music with heavy beats, drums, guitar, keyboard and some singing/shouting. Their music is something you can definitely get into because it is not too hard hitting and is actually slightly reminiscent of an M.I.A. vibe. After a few songs I did feel as if I was being hypnotized or brainwashed because of the repetitive lyrics, but I enjoyed it. The one word from their lyrics I couldnt get out of my head was FIRE. Like M.I.A., I guess these Brits just love fire. Overall their music takes a little warming up to, but I think that they are definitely worth checking out. The only bummer was that Sophie Sleigh-Johnson on the keyboard seemed so not into their performance; for me to get excited about a band I need the band to be excited about themselves.
