Though this was the second time in 10 days that we were witnessing Thurston Moore perform, this time it was in a totally different context and setting. Sonic Youth‘s performance on the Williamsburg Waterfront (review here) showcased one of the best bands of the last 30 years rocking out to a crowd of thousands and concentrating on ’80s and early ’90s material along with material from their latest Lp (2009’s The Eternal). In contrast, Thurston’s set in the beautiful but very poorly ventilated church sanctuary drew heavily upon his recently released solo Lp Demolished Thoughts. Produced by Beck , the Lp is Thurston’s take on quiet, introspective singer-songwriter record and its songs worked like a charm. The sound was perfect whether he reached for Demolished Thoughts material or delved into material from his other records (2007’s more similar but not quite as subdued Trees Outside the Academy and 1995’s Psychic Hearts, a much more raucous affair that contrasts sharply with his more recent solo material). All in all, it was very much worth it to brave the sweatbox (esp. in the summer) that is the church to see this show.
I enjoyed Meg Baird‘s opening set, particularly her first few songs. With one of those voices (hers is somewhere between Sandy Denny and Judee Sill, but spookier than either), the former Espers singer sounds soft and relaxed, yet creepy at the same time. It’s a tonic that worked perfectly for the quiet, seated venue.
