Grizzly Bear @ Petit Campus
By: Maria Giuliani
The heat and humidity of the Ukrainian Federation was not enough to keep out the indie kids as Grizzly Bear took the stage before a packed audience, promising even more experimentation than their already unique, cutting edge sound.
Their second song, "Alligator," for example, was one that had never before been played onstage. This less-than-grizzly foursome turned it from its original 60-second version into a five-minute cover. It was a bit weak in areas, but overall was pretty good. The boys were obviously embarrassed by the results and were quite apologetic to the audience for presenting something so rough. Comparing "Alligator" with the original, it becomes clear that when Grizzly Bear works, they work really well. Theirs is not music on the fly. They create polished harmonies, specifically composed in order to create just the right ambiance.
Performing in front of a painted country landscape, the ethereal quality of their music is quite beautiful. If you allow yourself to become a part of the mood, it would be easy to imagine yourself transposed in that landscape. This is music that makes you see colours with your eyes closed.
Now, if only Taylor could find a way to get up off his knees as he plays his many instruments, they'd get even more points for stage presence.
