He's My Brother She's My Sister at Knitting Factory

by Sky Disco

Friday night was definitely a cold one but L.A.'s He's My Brother She's My Sister had the sold out Knitting Factory on fire. From the moment they emerged from backstage, I was engaged by their striking visual appearance: wearing bold stripes and sequins, they even had the the drum kit and upright bass decorated to match. For me, they were reminiscent of an old time traveling carnival, or a family jam in some country house far from the concrete city. (and I thought this before I saw their videos.)

Each musician in the band is extremely talented and innovative. Brother and sister Robert and Rachel Kolar have an infectious connection and magic that is bewitching. Rachel's voice is earthy, sultry and soothingly melodic; Robert plays the kick drum while singing and strumming guitar. Lauren Brown must burn beaucoup calories every show by tap dancing the song rhythms while simultaneously pounding two other drums with mallets. A boisterous performer, Oliver Newell rocked the night away on his merrily painted upright bass. The folky, roots guitar stylings of Aaron Robinson sounded like plucking crystal.

The enthusiastic audience shouted out song requests and sang along. In high spirits, Robert mentioned that this was one of his favorite shows, suggesting to his sister that she stage dive. Rachel mentioned that the only time she had ever attempted one was during their Warped Tour performance. Robert nudged her a bit more, and finally she went for it! It was the most earnest and pure crowd surf I had ever seen.

He’s My Brother She’s My Sister at Knitting Factory

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