Ok – this is gonna be quick, otherwise I wont get to it at all.

The Decoration – good… a few songs I especially liked. They kinda have that modest mouse/built to spill melded w/ a little deathcab sound to em. but some more progressive bass/drums action (those songs I liked better)

Built Like Alaska – good… really good if you like Grandaddy and don’t mind that this band sounds a *lot* like them. And SUPERB if you can appreciate a kick ass mustache. But this wasn’t just any mustache – he told me the certain name they call it… but I forget now – do you know?? Turns out that very guy is the brother to a guy in Grandaddy… and apparently thats a whole “central valley sound” – and that’s the reason why it might sound similar.

Here’s where I’ll bitch about The Thrills. I wanted to like them – but I almost officially don’t now because they sound too much like Grandaddy!! They’re from Europe!! And just because they came over here to visit for one summer, they can’t use that “central valley sound” excuse if you ask me. I dont know – maybe I’m just being all protective for Grandaddy… I mean, they do “that sound” really well :) And yes, they just blew up before anyone else so that’s who I’m comparing others too. However, no doubt if I had Built Like Alaska’s CD and listened to it for awhile, I’d hear their uniqueness… but I guess I’m not sure I need to listen to 5 other bands that sound similar… ya know?

alright – I’ll move on..

Nik Freitas – so good. I can’t wait to get this CD. Nik has a GREAT voice – and he had 2 other guys (the bass & guitar dudes) doing some harmony vocals along with him. I really really enjoyed his set (and no, I dont think it was just the tequila shots talking!).

TONITE: Sushi w/ Rick & Jem & then we hit Gold Chains at The HiZZ. wahoo!

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P.S. I know I have to seriously update my calendar on the left – so much has been announced in the last 2 weeks between Noise-Pop and everyone waking up from their holiday slumber. There’s some kick ass shows coming up!! I’ll update it over the weekend.