I waited a long time to see Lightning Bolt a second time. The first time I saw them was around 9 years ago and it was pretty close to a life-altering event. It was by far one of the very best concerts I’ve ever been to . In fact, when people really press me on the topic, like “you’re practically an expert, what are the best shows you’ve seen?”, I tend to mention either that amazing show (with Lightning Bolt, Black Dice , Orthrelm , and Avey Tare & Panda Bear !); or else maybe Paul Flaherty & Chr…

So last month I was waxing enthusiastic about the Sockets showcase at the Black Cat, and I went and brought a bunch of friends. And it was great! But I got a little burned out on all-Sockets, all-the-time music thinking, and so I’m just getting around to writing it up. It was a solid show, all 5 bands were good, and the whole night had a lot of good vibes. There was a nice turnout and a lot of enthusiasm for the music. And I talked to members of several of the bands, discussed things with my fri…

I’ve been wanting to check out Buildings , a.k.a. BLDGS, for a while, so was pleased to have the chance to check them out at Haydee’s Restaurant in Mt. Pleasant — close enough to home that I could make it on a banged-up knee that has been keeping me away from shows. Plus at Haydee’s you can sit and drink mediocre margaritas. You don’t get margaritas at the Black Cat. I first heard about Buildings sometime several months ago, maybe in the spring, and when I listened to them online I was quite imp…