NXNE Live: Sebastien Grainger HORSESHOE TAVERN - JUNE 9 Single life can be a tough sport — especially after co-existing in an exciting life-changing experience. Sebastien Grainger has had such an encounter with his former band, Death from Above 1979, however, he (like many others) is migrating away from co-existence and is now sold on a solo career. Grainger is not alone at The Horseshoe Tavern. In front of a hazardously sardined crowd — a sight that must be pleasing to his eye — he has the pleasure of playing his raw material under his new solo tag. The comfort of knowing he owns the stage for 45 minutes may be reason enough for him to smile and as he unveils his new musings. Grainger's music is a definite leap in a different direction. He's swapped the drums for a guitar and has added two compadres to help round out his new sound. For the most part, his songs revolve around solid and heavy repetitive pop-beats accompanied by his mood-driven guitar wailings; a nice and unexpected change from his previous work with DFA 1979. There's some great news ahead for Grainger fans: "I'm working on a new album, which should be out later this summer. It should be good. You know it," he announces cheekily mid-set as he tunes his guitar. The final song of the set is more like the glam dance-punk sound we've become attuned to recently. Now, with the help of an extra set of arms in the line-up, Grainger can become more creative; the last song brings a change in instruments as he sits down and works the keyboard whilst the drummer takes command of the guitar. "Thank you and see you guys soon," promises Grainger at set's end. He is certainly embracing single life with his new solo persona and any signs of DFA 1979 withdrawal symptoms are non-existent as evidenced in his new musical direction.