Get ready to fill your week with an eclectic mix of tunes and live performances that promise to stir your soul and get you moving. Whether you’re looking to chill out to some nostalgic rock vibes, explore fresh new beats, or dive into the hypnotic world of post-punk, this lineup has something for every music lover in Richmond.
From the breezy, end-of-summer feel of Guster to the ethereal harp of Mikaela Davis, from The Barons’ cinematic rock at The Broadberry to the iconic jazz of Cowboy Bebop brought to life, this week is packed.
Got a show coming up? New single? Simply want someone to talk music? Hit up Griffin at griffin@rvamag.com.
Lewis Ginter | Tuesday september 24th 9/24
Guster, Mikaela Davis
This is the perfect time and setting for this show. Guster feels like the tail end of summer, so much sweetness in the sun with a breeze. Their take on chill rock left a lasting definition on the early 2000’s, but they are not done yet. Released in May of this year, Ooh La La, is their newest record with incredibly lively instrumentation that gives the whole record a boost of energy.
Mikaela Davis feels like a modernized take on the 60’s mellow in a modern milieu. Mikaela Davis is doing something very few are doing in this modern age, tossing a harp into the mix. Songs like Other Lover show off the ethereal effect the instrument can add, and how it can dance with the vocals.
The Broadberry | Thursday september 19th 2024
The Barons, CAS, Nancy Raygun
Hailing originally from Charlottesville, new townies The Barons are having a nice move in party at the Broadberry. They have the drama and song-livelihood that I really find in groups like The Who, to make a living-breathing song is no easy feat. Their single Would You Want It (If You Had It) reads like an entire cinematic experience, it provides so much growth in 4 minutes. I am really excited to see these songs in person, as they are already chalked with character.
CAS has got those real sentimental beats that I love, almost reminds me of Kid Cudi. Honey is their newest single and it definitely leans more rock, with an impressive guitar giving the song a real car chase vibe. The more guitar driven songs have really caught my attention.
I have already written about good ol’ Nancy Raygun before so I won’t hark. It’s a powerful and immersive psychedelia with the heart of a couple indie kids.
Carpenter Theatre | Sunday, september 22nd 2024
Cowboy Bebop Live
Cowboy Bebop is one of the most adored and admired cult classics on this side of the century, and it is coming here live. The Bebop Bounty Big Band will be performing the iconic jazzy soundtrack at the Carpenter Theatre. The entire soundtrack makes you feel like James Bond on whatever pills Charlie Parker was taking. This is such an incredibly rare and unique show.
The Camel | Friday, September 20th, 2024
Downhaul, Pink Window, Hard Count
Downhaul have been on a kick with the release of their EP at the start of the month, they are already gearing up for their album release show. These guys really remind me of Jimmy Eat World, with their chill and straightforward delivery, leaning almost on emo but remaining conventional. (I have just been informed that Downhaul’s own Gordon used to babysit me as a child, the world is incredibly small all the time).
Pink Window also dropped an EP earlier this year. I dig the very vocally focused style that lets the words really hit. The instrumentation should not be written off, it comes from that same early 2000’s indie rock that instills a real sense of optimism.
Hard Count is only rocking one Bandcamp release so far, but it’s rocking. They are an honest to God surf rock band. It has all the innocence of the 50’s but with the edge that punk rock introduced. The whole bill is jammed with life.
Ipanema Cafe | Sunday, september 22nd 2024
Cameron Cade, Ego N Friends
“I am your daughter on her deathbed, made of porcelain, glass, and bloodshed” need I say more. Cameron Cade is a native virginian that has found herself stopping in friendly territory on tour from Denver. Her voice reminds me of a young Kim Deal on those softer songs, but the lyricism really grabs you. Sundays are for a couple tears, share ‘em with Cameron.
Ego N Friends is another Denver artist but with an evident California origin story. Indie rap that catches you in a sensitive spot.
New Tunes
All Across the Nation by Knifing Around
Richmond post punkers and new wavers, Knifing Around, are off a string of impressive opening slots and are not slowing down with the release of their new EP All Across the Nation. The 5 songs are filled with repeated hypnotizing lyrics and Talking Heads influence. There is some real impressive trumpet work that pairs well with some really danceable drums.
Imports
Another Screen by Pop Music Fever Dream
I think I added this column in hopes of getting bands I like to play in Richmond. PMFD released a second single in August. Another Screen is a song with direct lyrics and abstract instrumentation. The song is a unabomber-esque rant against the hell that screens have put us through. Part of the flow of interesting NYC acts right now, these guys are going places.
Main photo by @noranchonpizza
