Fever Ray at Webster Hall

Talk about a Scandinavian chill! Fever Ray - a.k.a. Karin Dreijer of the Knife - knows how to put on a show. With incense, mist (...that smelled like maple syrup?), old time-y lamps, apocalyptic circus outfits and CLASS FOUR LASERS, the atmosphere at Webster Hall was eerie and otherworldly. In other words, absolutely fitting for Fever Ray's grotesque pop (grotesque in a good way). However, these aesthetic directions created difficult conditions for photography, as it was hazy and extremely dark for most of the show. Also, photographers were only allowed at the periphery of the photo pit (lest we disturbed the lasers and mirrors center stage). I made due with what I had...
After the show, I managed to catch up with pals - Matt (Music Slut), Abbey (Punk Photo), and Jeff (Culture of Me) - in the VIP balc. Oh, and Karin made an appearance in civilian clothes. A slight fan moment ensued, one that I will not elaborate here.

Phoenix at Rumsey Playfield

I've never seen Phoenix live, so this massive show - first of two sold out nights at a 5500-capacity, give or take, venue - was a very impressive introduction. Also, this is the largest venue I've ever photographed.
It was an all-around enjoyable night. The lighting during the first song was a harsh, unforgiving back light. After this dramatic intro, the pretty sick light show ensued. Great weather, great atmosphere, great energy!

Took these pics for House List, Bowery Presents' endeavor in blogging. You can see more photos on Flickr here.

The Decemberists at Terminal 5

Oh, Colin! I knew he wasn't going to kick me but I still recoiled.

The Decemberists played a "Lottery Show," which involved a live drawing of songs from the Portland quintet's entire catalog plus a few surprises (i.e.: "Colin write a song now"). This was a fantastic show all around - lively band, lively crowd. I can't ask for more as a concert-goer or photographer. Shot this for House List, the nascent Bowery Presents blog. The entire Flickr set can be found here.

Cold Cave at Rogan Store

Fashion's Night Out, baby! I feel the recession reversing already. (Not.) But still, some great events yesterday night, including Cold Cave performing an in-store at Rogan on 330 Bowery. Free champagne, I can't complain.

Wes and Dominick

On a related note, the day before, I went to Agent Provocateur's presentation at the SoHo Grand. Here is some kinky couture for yah.

Warp Records 20th Anniversary at Terminal 5

EDIT: 'SUP write-up and photos are up online now.

Last night was the 20th Anniversary shindig for Warp Records. Battles, !!!, Flying Lotus and Pivot played. Shot this for the incomparable 'Sup Magazine, review coming up.

Battles was tighter than ever. Unf, that precision!

Ian of Battles

"High hat"

!!! was one fierce one-man dance party with jazz hands and twirling. Towards the end of the 3rd song, frontman Nic Offer jumped into the photo pit and started dancing around with the photographers and the crowd. Some sweat got on me.

I think I've been subconsciously channeling JJ Abrams, because lately, I've been embracing the lens flare.

Pivot sounds like Battles redux with a dash of Animal Collective, but I did enjoy them. Will give them another listen.