I don't know about you, but when I see the phrase "Autumn In New York," I hear the sweet, soaring, propulsive sound of indie-rock bands, in all their multifaceted splendor. Yes, it's time once again for the CMJ Music Marathon, NYC's annual celebration of indie rock, with over 1,400 bands from all over the globe cramming nearly 80 clubs between now and Saturday.
CMJ may have been passed in size and scope by SXSW long ago, but for all you young'uns in need of a history lesson, CMJ is the grandaddy of all indie-music festivals, founded way back in 1981 and still a crucial platform for up-and-coming bands looking to break into the music biz. If anything, you'll probably have a better chance of seeing the next big thing here than in Austin: I saw Death Cab for Cutie play the late, lamented Brownies on Avenue B in 2000, and Mumford and Sons at Music Hall of Williamsburg in 2009.
Last night, I chose to stick to the Lower East Side, where highlights included London's Vadoimessico at the Paper Garden Records day party, Austin's Quiet Company at The Living Room (hint: their name is misleading), and bluegrass/country master Michael Daves playing his usual Tuesday time slot at Rockwood Music Hall. "I hear it's CMJ this week," he said to us before launching into a heartfelt rendition of "Tennessee Border."
But taking the top prize last night was Erin Barra at The Deli showcase on the small bar stage at The Delancey. With a garrison of keyboards, computers, and Ableton Live launchpads, she and her collaborator Paul Wilson created an epic wall of sound magically joined by Barra's powerful neo-soul vocals, redolent of Florence Welch or Adele. I can't remember the last time I've witnessed such a seamless marriage of art and technology; would love to see what they could do with a couple of extra players.
More pics from last night on the photo page.