Features: sound check

Singer/songwriter Scott Matthew is probably best known for his contributions to the soundtrack of John Cameron Mitchell’s sexually explicit indie comedy, Shortbus. continue reading »

Any Tori Amos show is like a religious experience for her legions of devoted fans, but last month’s double-header at the Beacon Theater was something special. continue reading »

Don’t ask Gem Club’s lead singer, Christopher Barnes, to describe his band’s music. continue reading »

As Webster Hall filled up for last month’s Diamond Rings show, multicolored beach balls flew across the room, tossed by fans in little cardboard rainbow masks. continue reading »

Patrick Wolf’s latest album, Lupercalia, won’t be out in the U.S. until next year—for now it’s only available in digital form—but the British folktronica wunderkind treated New York fans to a rare acoustic show at Le Poisson Rouge a few weeks ago, whetting our appetites for the album’s release. continue reading »

The days are still warm but summer is winding down and I’m looking forward to an autumn full of live music. Everyone from Blondie and the Smashing Pumpkins to Feist and M83 are hitting the road this fall. Time to update your iCals once again boys; it’s Sound Check’s annual Fall Concert Preview! continue reading »

QxBxRx’s move from the Lower East Side to Williamsburg’s Public Assembly has been amazing for so many reasons: more space, better lighting—although I always loved the fact that Cake Shop’s stage was lit entirely by Christmas lights—and bars for the go-go boys to dance on. But the thing I’ve noticed most is the difference in the quality of the sound. Several of bands I’ve seen over the years at Cake Shop have played at the new venue and it’s been a completely different experience hearing them. Making Friendz, Jen Urban and the Box, The Ruffian Arms, Little Victory and other QxBxRx faves have made appearances at the new venue, and hearing them at Public Assembly has been like hearing them for the very first time. continue reading »