Thursday 11.08.07: GREAT NORTHERN @ Echoplex

Great Northern

On the cover of Great Northern’s debut album, Trading Twilight for Daylight, sits a barren tree backed by an arctic landscape. Such a dormant image is ironic considering the band’s lively and articulately layered sound, with traditional instrumentation being complemented by the likes of strings, brass, and other orchestral elements that are often considered too complex or overbearing to even visit the usually simplistic world of indie pop. Demonstrating the ability to take risks, Great Northern are one of the more capable bands of their element I have heard lately. Based out of Los Angeles, Great Northern was formed due to the strong friendship of pianist Rachel Stolte and guitarist Solon Bixler, both proficient songwriters and lead vocalists. – Obscure Sound

with:
Robbers on High Street

Robbers on High Street || Listen || Watch

Each of the eleven tracks within Grand Animals can be broken down and taken apart as a stand-alone piece – individually they hint at manner of pop rock sounds – but none carries enough weight to eclipse the album. From the simple pop rock of “Crown Victoria” to the smooth nighttime pop of “Nasty Numbers,” the Robbers shift left and right across the style spectrum with ease. The album’s cover, of embroidered throw pillows emblazed with the Robbers’ faces, suggests Grand Animals might be suited for muzak at a soft-spoken retirement home, but an early 60′s sock hop on the wrong side of the tracks would be more appropriate. – www.lostatsea.com

plus:
The Jealous Girlfriends || Listen

@ Echoplex
1154 Glendale Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90026