Category: Concert Reviews

Categories
Concert Reviews News

Poll of the Week: What Style Concert Review Do You Prefer?

I’ve been attending many concerts over the past few weeks and feature most of the bands I see on You Sing, I Write. While I buy tickets to some, other shows I receive press passes for specific press outlet coverage. Typically, the concerts I purchase tickets for I don’t blog about, and instead write live concert updates on Twitter.

However, while attending shows this past week, I was curious to what you enjoy reading more — complete 700+ word write-ups, or 140 character observations on Twitter? This brings me to this week’s poll question:

What style concert review do you prefer?

In-depth blog write-up.

Live Twitter coverage.

Both.

Other.

Can’t wait to read your votes in this week’s poll. As always, if you have additional suggestions feel free to leave them in the comments!

Categories
Concert Reviews

Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band: Giants Stadium Night One Recap

“Evening New Jersey! It’s nice to be in my backyard,” Bruce Springsteen said, greeting the crowd at Giants Stadium Wednesday night. “You’ve joined us tonight to shut the old lady down. We’ve had a lot of great nights here. Let’s make this another one.”

Shortly after, the band began a new number, “Wrecking Ball,” which Springsteen wrote specifically for the night. “I was raised out of steel here in the swamps of Jersey/Some misty years ago,” he sang while the lyrics scrolled across the screens. “My home is here in the Meadowlands/Where mosquitoes grow big as airplanes/Here where the blood is spilled, the arena is filled and Giants play the game,” he continued to screams. (Watch video below courtesy NJ.com.)

Bruce Springsteen performs his new song Wrecking Ball at Giants Stadium

Playing just over three hours, Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band’s energetic 29-song set, kept concertgoers on their feet. Whether it was newer tracks like, “Working on a Dream” from his most recent release, or the entirety of 1975’s Born To Run cover to cover, Springsteen and the E Street Band continue their legacy of New Jersey’s finest and must-see acts.

“Seeds,” “Johnny 99” and “Atlantic City” followed “Wrecking Ball” with saxophone, violin and steel guitar interludes fans know and love. During “Atlantic City,” Springsteen jumped off the stage and played to those on the floor, marking the first of his many sprints into the masses of fans throughout the venue.

Bruce Springsteen performs Seeds at Giants Stadium

With little to no segue between songs, on the rare occasion there was a moment before his “1, 2, 3, 4” start to the next number, fans chanted, “BRUCE!” Performing with a cowboy hat during “Outlaw Pete,” The Boss could be seen conducting his band with his infamous swinging arm motions.

One of the highlights of the night, “Hungry Heart” had the crowd singing in unison, before Springsteen took the mic. Running into the crowd, he sat on the barricades singing to fans lucky enough to garner spots on the floor. Shaking hands and posing for photos, Springsteen ran back to the stage, lying on the ground for a few seconds before the song segued into “Working on a Dream.”

“We’re so glad to be with you tonight. It feels so good to be home,” he said. “We were trying to think of things to make our last stay in Giants Stadium special.” He then told the crowd the albums he’ll be playing for the next four shows in their entirety. Taking out his harmonica to begin, “Thunder Road,” the stadium erupted with excitement I’ve never witnessed before. Definitely a favorite album by many, Springsteen continued to play Born To Run cover to cover. For the title track, the house lights went on as many danced and raised their beer bottles in the air while the video screens displayed signs from fans in the crowd that read, “It’s Boss Time” and “Happy 60th.”

When the very last chord of “Jungleland” was played Springsteen ushered the band to the front of the stage. “These are the guys that make the music,” he said as they took a bow. “Alright, back to work. Get your asses back on those instruments,” he joked into which “Waitin’ on a Sunny Day” began. Mid-song, Springsteen handed over his mic to a young boy from the floor who he pulled onstage to sing.

Additional highlights included the moving “The Promised Land,” “Lonesome Day” and “Badlands.” While leaning into the crowd, Springsteen collected a handful of signs, one that read “E Street Shuffle” and another, “Growin’ Up,” both of which he performed soon after. Midway through “Growin’ Up,” Springsteen told the crowd of “the weirdest dream” he had the previous night. “I was walking in the house in a trance and all the lights went out and all I remember was this cake and there were 60 fuckin’ candles on it,” to which the entire stadium began singing “Happy Birthday.” Barely able to get a word in, eventually he continued. “Then there were thousands of people reminding me of something I was trying to forget,” he joked. “And then I woke up.”

Chants of, “JERSEY!” permeated throughout Giants Stadium, prefacing another fan favorite, “Dancing In the Dark.” Closing the night with “Hard Times” and the beloved “Rosalita (Come Out Tonight),” Springsteen and the E Street Band kicked off a successful first of five nights performing at Giants Stadium. The last band to play before the Stadium is torn down; I couldn’t imagine a better show to, in Springsteen’s words, “shut the old lady down.”

You can read this review, originally posted on Bumpershine.

Categories
Band of the Week Concert Reviews

Band of the Week: Only Living Boy

This past Friday I caught Only Living Boy‘s performance at The Court Tavern in New Brunswick. Performing a 45-minute set, the Jersey-based band impressed with their ear-grabbing guitar riffs and infinite energy. In fact, I can’t remember the last time I’ve been at a show when a band’s improvisation was so captivating.

The three-piece, which consists of frontman Joe Cirotti on guitar, bassist Eric Curley and drummer Trevor Newcomb, had the room packed as they played songs from their self-titled debut release. While their alternative rock brings to mind classic 70s acts, it is perhaps no wonder that their name was inspired by Simon & Garfunkel’s 1970 song “Only Living Boy in New York.”

Not new to the music scene, Only Living Boy has been playing together in various forms, perhaps most familiar as Rabid Roy. About to embark on an East Coast tour, the band has shared the stage with notable acts like the New York Dolls.

Only Living Boy has a sound that stands out from other up-and-coming acts today. Niki Coate of WNTI described it best: “a combination of the psych rock inherited from their parents’ vinyl and the alternative rock of their own MTV adolescence.”

“My Friend,” a song Cirotti said is about his dog, brings to mind the Woodstock era and guitar-centric jams of legends like Jimi Hendrix and Carlos Santana while “My Heart Is Burning” has an edgy, almost country rock vibe to it. Cirotti’s vocals are captivating as the accompanying percussion and guitar interlude portrays his ongoing angst told within the story of the song.

Additionally, tracks like “How Lovers Have a Ball” continue to exemplify the band’s versatility and timelessness. While some songs transform the listener to another era, others maintain a certain charm and relevancy, continuing to keep Only Living Boy on the cusp of a constantly changing music industry.

For more on Only Living Boy and upcoming tour dates be sure to visit their MySpace. To listen to a stream of current single, “Worthless,” click here. To listen to “Homesick,” click here.

Categories
Concert Reviews

Better Than Ezra, Tyrone Wells Bring Surprises At Sold-Out New York Show

A huge sensation in the 90s, Better Than Ezra proved last Friday night at The Fillmore New York at Irving Plaza that they’re far from a nostalgic memory. Playing for nearly two hours, the band had die-hard fans singing along to their old hits as well as some covers and surprise guest appearances.

Tyrone Wells opened the night playing many tracks off his latest album, Remain. Winning over the audience with his soulful covers of Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get It On,” Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ On a Prayer” and The Police’s “Roxanne,” as well as his captivating storytelling, the night’s surprises started with Wells.

After telling a heartwarming tale of a fan calling him to request Wells’ presence performing at his wedding proposal, Wells’ called out a name in the crowd. “Tara in the balcony, I think you should turn around.” Low and behold, her boyfriend, Steve, kneels on the ground and proposes. Screams and applause erupt throughout the venue as she accepts.

“This song is going out to Tara and Steve,” Wells said before segueing into his hit, “Sea Breeze.” Apparently Wells’ concerts are the place to meet your future significant other. He told the crowd he’ll be playing Highline Ballroom October 7, before ending the night with powerful number and title track off his album, “Remain.”

Shortly before 10:30 Better Than Ezra took the stage to screams. The women around me were still smitten over lead singer Kevin Griffin and could be heard screaming, “He’s so hot! I’d take him home,” continuously throughout the night. Infatuated fans aside, Better Than Ezra put on a pleasing set and showed the crowd that they still know how to rock.

Playing songs off their latest release, Paper Empire, as well as hits off their eight album catalog, Better Than Ezra had all in attendance feeling like they were in college again. “I’m going to be three things to you tonight,” frontman Griffin told the crowd. “A guy, a confidant, and devil’s advocate,” he said before beginning, “A Lifetime.”

Previous hits like 1995’s “Good,” and “Extra Ordinary” mingled with new tracks “Absolutely Still,” the crowd equally receptive. Midway through their set none other than New Orleans’ Manning brothers Peyton and Eli took the stage, before aptly titled track, “King of New Orleans.”

And that was just the first 10 songs. Playing a 23-song set, it was hard to decipher the crowd favorite. “Desperately Wanting” came close as all around me were singing along word for word. “A lot of bands put out a lot of good albums and then it sucks. Not true for us,” Griffin said before playing “I Just Knew,” a moving ballad and last track on their latest release.

The Manning brothers made one last appearance onstage, this time throwing footballs into the crowd before Better Than Ezra began playing AC/DC into which the DJ segued into Black Eyed Peas’ energetic track, “Boom Boom Pow.” Never short on energy, the band pleased the crowd with a five-song encore.

“Thank you guys for so many years,” Griffin said before promising, “We’ll be back around.” From the look of the sold-out venue Friday night, their fans will be waiting.

For more on Better Than Ezra, be sure to visit them on MySpace. To listen to tracks from Tyrone Wells, and catch his current tour dates, check him out on MySpace too.

Categories
Concert Reviews

White Rabbits Impress At Sold-Out New York Show

The approaching holiday weekend didn’t deter concertgoers from attending White Rabbits’ sold-out concert at Bowery Ballroom last Thursday night. As they performed an hour-long set of older fan favorites as well as tracks off their most recent release, It’s Frightening, White Rabbits had all in attendance captivated by their live show.

The band’s energy was undeniable from the moment they took the stage for first track, “Rudie Fails.” Whether it was Steve Patterson’s vigor while playing piano or guitarists Alex Even and Greg Roberts jumping around onstage, White Rabbits kept the crowd engaged. Their constant interaction was impressive and permeated throughout the venue.

The lack of between-song banter didn’t matter. Concertgoers were there to see a powerhouse set from the Brooklyn-based band and that’s what they got. Led by dual vocalists Patterson and Roberts, each voice matched the energy of the songs showcased and, at times darker musical accompaniment provided. One highlight was seeing the array of instruments played by the six-piece. Throughout the performance, most band members rotated between helping out on percussion, tambourine as well as keyboards, and always managed to keep things fresh.

The band’s set moved quickly and with great diversity. Alternating from more upbeat track “The Lady Vanishes” to slower ballad, “Company I Keep,” Patterson left the piano for the first time of the night and proved he has just as much energy manning the mic alone as he does on the keys. Older tracks like “The Plot” and “While We Go Dancing” seemed to draw the most excitement while the crowd favorite of the night was vigorous “Percussion Gun.” With half the band playing the drums and the audience dancing and singing along word for word throughout the track, White Rabbits had the audience begging for more and they didn’t disappoint. As they took the stage for an encore, the show ended shortly after midnight to a satisfied audience. And, from the looks of it, the band had a blast as well.

It’s evident from Thursday’s show that White Rabbits is one band to be on the lookout for. With a slot at this year’s All Points West festival, there’s a good chance we’ll be hearing a lot more from them soon.

The Antlers opened up the night and played a 40-minute, six-song set. While the three-piece band has more of an ambient, atmospheric vibe, they had trouble winning over the audience. More onstage interaction between the band members could have resulted in a different outcome. While tracks like “Two” have much potential, less musical accompaniment and more vocals would have made for a much different concert experience.

Cymbals Eat Guitars brought along much-needed energy as the venue began to fill up shortly after 10 p.m. Their mix of indie, alternative rock, and, at times screamo, left the audience questioning what would come next. But, isn’t that what live shows are all about? The band interacted well onstage, which only kept the crowd more fascinated.

While Cymbals Eat Guitars have been compared to Built to Spill and early Modest Mouse, regardless of the comparison they definitely put their own spin on their material as could be witnessed throughout the entirety of their set. Songs like “Cold Spring” had solid electric guitar features while frontman Joseph Ferocious was a fun sight to see while jumping around onstage. Having received rave reviews by music publications and blogs alike, the band is on the cusp of indie greatness.

You can read this review, originally posted on Venus Zine here.

Categories
Concert Reviews

Zootopia Brings Diverse Lineup to New Jersey

Photo Credit: Wendy Hu

Before I give my full report on Saturday’s Zootopia concert I have to preface this entry by explaining that I grew up listening to Z100. It was always my dream in middle and high school (I’ll admit in college too) to win tickets and attend a show. In fact, I can’t even count how many times I called the radio station in hopes to be caller 100!

Whether it was the Backstreet Boys in the 90s or the Jonas Brothers last year, Zootopia is one of the biggest concerts showcasing today’s hottest music and being behind the scenes always seemed so glamorous to me. Never in a million years would I have imagined I’d be attending and sitting in the press room interviewing the artists I grew up listening to. But, that’s exactly what I was doing Saturday night and loved every minute of it!

Upon arrival at the IZOD Center in East Rutherford, NJ, Wendy and I were ushered into the press room shortly before 6 p.m. The back wall was lined with video cameras while the front of the room had a dozen or so photographers vying for the perfect location to capture the best shot of each artist. We made our way to the seats and shortly after none other than teen heartthrob Jesse McCartney entered the room. After his photo opp. he made his way to the mics for a quick Q&A.;

I realized right away how aggressive you have to be in a press conference set up and by the time the third artist came in, I made sure I got a question in. While one-on-one interviewing will always be my favorite, this set up was definitely a learning experience. I plan on typing up the Q&A;’s from each artist so you can have complete access to what was discussed. Each night this week I’ll post a new interview for you — how does that sound?

As much as I enjoyed the interviews, I had to catch some of the show. While I’ve seen the All-American Rejects numerous times in concert, their live show is always a treat. Whether it’s frontman Tyson Ritter making peculiar comments to the crowd or funny facial contortions, AAR’s energy and stage presence is undeniable. Playing a solid set of crowd favorites, “Dirty Little Secret” and “Move Along,” they switched gears up a bit by ending with latest single, slower ballad “The Wind Blows.” Riding the waves off chart topper “Gives You Hell,” “The Wind Blows” is sure to do the same. The guys talked about touring with Blink 182 this summer, so be sure to catch them soon!

Kelly Clarkson is another must-see live. Her arena friendly pop rock is solid and her vocals are always impressive. Not to mention, she had everyone around me singing along to “Since U Been Gone” (yes, even the guys). “I’m all about quality over quantity,” Clarkson told the crowd. “My personal philosophy is I do not hook up…unless it’s Hugh Jackman or Russell Crowe or someone really hot,” she joked before introducing current radio hit “I Do Not Hook Up.”

Jesse McCartney opened the night and most likely had all the girls swooning in the crowd. While I watched most of his set from the press room, his dancing and singing style was impressive. Having recently been hailed “The Heir to Justin Timberlake’s Throne,” while McCartney definitely has big shoes to fill, I’m rooting for him. As if that’s not enough, he’ll be touring this summer with New Kids On the Block and will surely win over the older women if he hasn’t done so already.

The rest of the night included appearance by Sean Paul, LMFAO and Taylor Momsen as well as the hosts for the evening — Z100’s radio station djs. Ciara’s performance made me wish I paid more attention in dance class, as her moves were like no one I’ve ever seen while Flo Rida and Soulja Boy wowed the crowd and surely increased the energy for Black Eyed Peas’ closing set.

If anything is certain from their performance Saturday night, the Peas will have the album of the summer. While “Boom Boom Pow” is heating up the charts, next single, “I Gotta Feeling” undeniably will to do the same. The band proved the breakup rumors to be false and their show demonstrated that they’re in it for the long haul. Playing past chart toppers, “Where Is the Love,” “My Humps” and “Let’s Get Retarted” the Peas had concertgoers at the IZOD Center on their feet, dancing and partying along until the last beat of “Boom Boom Pow” was played.
Stay tuned this week for interviews with each of the performers!

Categories
Concert Reviews

The Alternate Side Launch Party with Pela and The Postelles

Photo Credit: Maryanne Ventrice

Mercury Lounge was packed last night in celebration of the official launch of WFUV’s new indie music channel, The Alternate Side. And, what better way to kick off the channel than New York’s very own indie darlings Pela and The Postelles?

After a short introduction by the station’s staff and founders, The Postelles (photo above) took the stage playing tracks off their upcoming debut full length which is being produced by none other than Strokes’ guitarist Albert Hammond, Jr. The band has garnered rave reviews as of late with their 60s inspired pop and rock ‘n’ roll sound. With hooks galore encompassing tracks like “Hey Little Sister” and “123 Stop” it’s no wonder they’ve landed a spot at this year’s All Points West Festival.

Watch The Postelles play “123 Stop” last night below.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-RMbIQuyhpQ]

A Monday performance while the sun is still shining can’t be enticing for any band, but Pela sure showed concertgoers that it’s quite possible and rather enjoyable. Playing a 45-minute set Pela reminded everyone of what a real rock show should be. Their energetic set and engaging stage presence permeated throughout the room, having the crowd hooked and screaming for more. Whether it was frontman Billy McCarthy leaping off the stage into the crowd or tearing panels off the ceiling (photo below), Pela sure knows how to grab the audience’s attention.

The band has been getting quite a buzz and their recent tour dates with The Gaslight Anthem has only helped them gain the recognition they deserve. From last night’s performance, it is evident that Pela will be selling out their own headlining shows across the country in no time. Whether it was catchy track, “Tenement Teeth” or their solid cover of The Clash’s “Guns of Brixton,” Pela left those in attendance impressed.

“Pela rhymes with Layla,” McCarthy told the crowd. Soon after guitarist Nate Martinez chimed in, joking, “In Spain it would be paella, but we’re not in Spain.”

Songs like “Waiting On the Stairs” and “Chapel Song” had solid guitar buildup throughout, fitting the urgency of McCarthy’s vocals. Listen to”Waiting On the Stairs” below.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HyZ7tY5CX5g]

Pela’s talent is undeniable and I highly recommend checking them out live for yourself, as listening on MySpace just won’t cut it. For more on Pela be sure to visit their Web site and catch a show when they’re in town. You won’t regret it. If that’s not enough for you, watch a video of them covering The Clash below.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ou8yxVDNhf8]

For more on The Postelles, be sure to visit their MySpace and to hear more of your favorite indie bands, be sure to tune into 90.7 or check out The Alternate Side online!

Categories
Concert Reviews

Shiny Toy Guns Bring Energetic Show to NYC

I don’t think I’ve witnessed a concert as versatile as Shiny Toy Guns performance last Thursday at Webster Hall. A blend of every musical genre you can possibly imagine — dance, rock, electronica, indie, even some Hip-Hop thrown into the mix — Shiny Toy Guns surely impressed all in attendance.

Their explosive sound is indisputable as the floor of Webster Hall shook continuously from the beginning to the very end of their performance. (So much so, that a few times I literally thought it may cave in.) In fact, their 13-song hour-long set didn’t seem long enough for die-hard fans as the show closed with continuous screams for a second encore.

Surrounded by fog and bright lights, the LA-based band started off with “Starts With One” from debut album, We Are Pilots. Their performance was stellar and the intensity never faltered. Shiny Toy Guns were spot on as they segued from electronic songs to more rock based tracks with keyboard accompaniment. Whatever they were playing, they did no wrong.

It’s hard to determine which song was the crowd favorite. While high energy dance track “Ricochet!” brought the hands in the air, “Le Disko” switched things up with its heavy bass and percussion elements. And I can’t forget to mention the sing along choruses encompassing hit single “Ghost Town” from most recent release, Season of Poison. With its soaring guitar and keyboard features throughout the track, “Ghost Town” had the crowd screaming for more.

Currently on tour with the All-American Rejects, Shiny Toy Guns were clearly in their element Thursday headlining Webster Hall. “It’s good to be back,” co-lead singer Chad Petree said. “We have a lot of pent up energy.”

And he wasn’t lying. Fellow co-lead singer, Sisely Treasure’s energy was contagious and her constant jumping around onstage only enticed the audience to do the same. Highlights included the band’s cover of Depeche Mode’s “Stripped” as well as last song of the night, “You Are the One.”

While they’ve been opening up for the All-American Rejects, there is no denying the need for Shiny Toy Guns to be headlining their own shows. Definitely a band I recommend catching live if you have a chance, as I would see them again if the opportunity arises.

For more on Shiny Toy Guns be sure to visit their Web site and MySpace where you can download a song for free!

Categories
Concert Reviews

Ray LaMontagne Plays Sold-Out Jersey Show

Ray LaMontagne took the stage at Wellmont Theatre Thursday night to screams shortly after 9 p.m. Known for his shy demeanor, it was still a shock that he said little to the audience, except the occasional “Thank you” throughout the first 10 songs of his set. Playing track after track, the crowd didn’t seem to mind as they proved to be ardent fans, continuously yelling, “New Jersey loves Ray!”

Beginning with lively number “Henry Nearly Killed Me (It’s A Shame)” LaMontagne grabbed each concertgoers attention right off the bat at his sold-out show. With his rustically raspy and captivating vocals, it’s these attributes and his constant fluidity that sets him apart. While some songs played were dark and somber ballads of heartache and loss like older tracks “Trouble” and “Jolene,” others were more romantic and upbeat. Singing praises to Meg White of the White Stripes in, aptly titled song “Meg White” (“Meg White, I saw you on the big screen/Old Jack was keen/But you stole the scene”) or a lover as heard in “You Are the Best Thing,” LaMontagne kept all in attendance anxiously waiting on the edge of their seats for the next song.

Playing many tracks off his most recent critically acclaimed album, Gossip In the Grain, as well as some old fan favorites, it was hard to grasp which song was the audience favorite as screams echoed throughout the venue at the beginning of each song. Textured guitar and pedal steel accompaniment infused with his emotional lyrics was truly an experience one can only witness live.

His nearly 90-minute, 17-song set was interwoven with beautifully descriptive and moving lyrics. On soft, emotional ballad “Empty” LaMontagne sang, “And of these cut-throat busted sunsets, these cold and damp white mornings/I have grown weary./If through my cracked and dusted dime-store lips/I spoke these words out loud would no one hear me?”

In addition to LaMontagne’s solid performance on vocals and guitar, his band — consisting of electric guitar, bass, drums and pedal steel — impressed the crowd with colorful interludes on tracks like “Henry Nearly Killed Me (It’s A Shame)” and country number, “Hey Me, Hey Mama.”

LaMontagne’s music can be described as a fitting blend of folk and country. In fact, he told the audience about his keenness of country music. “I love country song structure; the simple hook and telling a story. It’s really nice and it’s really fluid.” From the look of it, LaMontagne’s song structure is well respected by many as he received a nearly five-minute standing ovation before his encore performance.

While some concertgoers may prefer a performer with quirky onstage banter prefacing each song, sometimes no words need to be spoken. Ray LaMontagne proved Thursday night that truly good music speaks for itself.

Watch below as Ray performs “Empty,” currently one of my favorite songs by him. What do you think? Listen to him on MySpace.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rIUSikXex5w]

You can also read this review posted on Filter-Mag.com here.

Categories
Concert Reviews Festivals

Third Eye Blind Debut New Tracks at Packed SXSW Showcase

By midnight Saturday festivalgoers were getting antsy awaiting Third Eye Blind‘s set. Their first-ever performance at South By Southwest, 3eb didn’t disappoint. Taking the stage to screams around 1 a.m. the band debuted eight tracks off their upcoming release, Ursa Major, due out this summer.

After nearly two-minutes of instrumental, Stephan Jenkins took the stage at Stubb’s exuding energy. Jumping and dancing around throughout his 15-song set, often teetering close to the edge of the stage, Jenkins threw roses into the crowd while singing first single off the album, “Non-Dairy Creamer.” Not an entirely unexpected track, diehard fans sung along word for word. However, this wasn’t the case with most of 3eb’s set.

In fact, at points the crowd was almost silent bobbing their heads along to the heavy bass and percussion beats to new and unfamiliar songs. Though, from the look of the crowd around me, most were impressed with the new tracks. Known for his quirky onstage banter with the audience and unique lyrics, frontman Jenkins still has staying power after all these years.

Before introducing the audience to the new tunes, Jenkins told the crowd, “We have in fact finished our fourth album,” to which screams erupted throughout the venue. Some new songs included “Bonfire,” ballad “One in Ten,” a song Jenkins played solo and said is about a recent crush he had on a girl who was a lesbian, and “Why Can’t You Be.” While the new music isn’t a huge stray from what 3eb fan’s are used to, it definitely is more rock heavy than earlier albums.

The energy at Stubb’s was undeniable and when old hits like “Jumper” and “Never Let You Go” were played everyone was singing along. “We never got to play South By Southwest before,” Jenkins told the crowd. He seemed almost surprised at the turnout and positive reception of the new tracks off the unreleased album, which he told festivalgoers will be out sometime this summer. “To have you all put out your hearts and energy tonight is not lost on us and we are thankful.”

While many of the tracks are more politically influenced than showcased on previous albums, slower songs like “About To Break” sound refreshingly familiar. Last full-band song of the night was crowd favorite, “Crystal Baller” before the band ended the show with an acoustic sing-along.

Whether Third Eye Blind was playing their older hits or new tunes from their upcoming release, one thing is certain — their fan base is bigger than ever and they had the crowd screaming for more well after their 70-minute set was over.

For more info. on their album release and to listen to new tracks be sure to visit Third Eye Blind on MySpace and their official Web site here.