Two for One: Celebrate!

In these trying economic times, a two for one special on just about anything that’s useful is appreciated. Fortunately, of the many commodities in fluctuation across markets, live music is not something Nashvillians are likely to go without. And, this Nashvillian was thrilled as could be to learn that two of his favorite bands would be playing on the same day…for free!

I suppose the longer than usual winter and recent string of tornadoes fueled the citizenry’s spring fever, because the 2009 Nashville Earth Day Festival in Centennial Park managed to attract a decent crowd. Booths from community groups, local businesses, environmental organizations, and government agencies were scattered about the park, and there were plenty of Frisbees, families, and pets. My reason for attending the festival, however, was centered solely on hearing AutoVaughn.

I had not heard the band play live in over a year, and my reunion with the Indiana transplants and local indie rock icons (not “pop behemoths” as Patrick Rodgers at the Nashville Scene so mistakes them) left me wanting. I mean, I was pleased to hear new material that has yet to be recorded. One song, “Danger”, while apocalyptic in lyric, is none the less a perfect groove for road trips and pool parties alike. But, I was pissed that I could barely hear lead guitarist Stephen Wilson’s melodic machinations. Furthermore, many in the audience seemed bored, lazy, fatigued, or confused.

Luckily, my boys will have a more generous audience and a more qualified sound engineer tomorrow night at Mercy Lounge where they’ll be competing with other bands for the chance to perform at Bonnaroo this year. The free show and competition gets underway at 9pm.

The viral-savvy rock phenomenon known as Mute Math had not played in Nashville since their 2007 concert at City Hall. Last night, they joined eighteen other bands and deejays in the tiny parking lot behind Grimey’s to celebrate the second annual Record Store Day. I was able to steal a moment of groupieesque chit chat with each member prior to their set. Impressively, all four gentlemen are as personable as they are talented. And, make no mistake; Mute Math is a seasoned ensemble of uncommon ability and taste.

Unexpectedly forced to play the show without use of their “extra gadgets” (as I learned the next day on Twitter), Mute Math still managed to fashion their gloriously complex sound with more common instrumentation. The giddy crowd was simply spellbound. Amid pleas for an encore, the band assuaged doting fans (who essentially blocked their only exit) with a rendition of their popular sing-a-long, “Peculiar People”.

Despite being on my feet for some seven hours, my list of scheduled activities was hardly complete. I made my way back to Midtown to round off my evening among my own peculiar people and some tasty potables.