This post is a little bit past its expiration date, but better late than never I figure. Philadelphia’s Pattern Is Movement played at Union Hall last Thursday, and I was pumped to see them in a more intimate venue, since the first time I caught them was at Southpaw. I think I may have said this in my last review, but I’ve never seen a band with a more fitting band name. Chris Ward’s unbelievable drumming gives this duo a constantly shifting, shimmering quality to their music, while Andrew Thiboldeaux’s operatic voice gives it a powerful emotional beauty. They also seem like the nicest guys in the world, at least from their stage banter. At one point they joked that they were going to do an hour-long improvisation. Honestly, I wouldn’t have minded at all. They both seem like they have such a solid grasp on musical theory and jazz and other forms of not-rock music, that I think we’re lucky they’ve decided to make indie-accessible tunes. They could easily have gone in another direction, but they apply their skill to create their own exciting form of rock music. This duo is inventive and refreshing, and you should definitely keep your eye on them. I think you’ll like the cool cover below from their Daytrotter session.
Unfortunately I missed the openers, Inlets, because I was making my first foray into Union Hall’s dining options. As to be expected, it was definitely a good place to grab a bite. Coincidentally, Bell opened for Pattern Is Movement, who I’ve happened to have just seen twice very recently. After three times of watching her exciting mix of percussion, keyboards, and pop vocals, I feel I have a pretty good handle on her. I’m not sure that this review can be as glowing as the last. When it comes down to it, she’s got about three great songs with incredible build, but the rest often get lost in meandering melodies and overwrought electronic drum beats. Still, I think she’s a very young artist with a lot more room to grow. And those three great songs are really, really good.
Bell:
Pattern Is Movement:
MP3: “Crazy In Love” – Pattern Is Movement (from live Daytrotter session)
