’We’re the New Pornographers…Check this shit out’ A.C Newman, front man of the Canadian superish group gingerly states. Whilst The Raconteurs despise the tag, The New Pornographers are something of an understated collective - like a musical Waltons with a revolving door policy. Tonight they number 5 instead of the usual 8 but even with this depleted rank the Canadian invasion continues.
The U.S gave us We Are Scientists, we have The Young Knives and Canada has thrown up The New Pornographers who pull off their geek chic with plaid aplomb. It’s impossible to miss that they attract a very different gig going clientele. Mature, sophisticated, bohemian professionals replace the slap happy kiddies and the crowd surfing is replaced by the dancing University Lecturer near the back. It’s understandable really because The New Pornographers crafted, melody laced pop songs are so vitally refreshing simply because there just isn’t music like this being made on our shores. With boundless confidence, disarming harmonies not seen since the innocent warbling of Joanna Newsome and the feelgood promise that summer’s on it’s way, tracks like ‘Use It’, ‘Sing me Spanish Techno’ and ‘Bleeding Heart’ will have you grinning like the well adjusted bastard you aren’t.
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Despite the absence of Neko Case, synthmeister Blaine Thurier and the multi talented Dan Bejar, sticksman Kurt Dahle smokes and lives every moment, guitarist Todd Fancey looks undecided as to whether he’s in or out as he skulks corner stage whilst John Collins has a mean Peter Hook likeness. He also plays bass. It’s almost too much of a coincidence. Still the family dynamic of Newman and niece Kathryn Calder is heart warming to see as their every move, chord and mistake is cheered like a home coming.
With Canada represented in force on this year’s festival circuits, expect a buzz of Arcade Fire proportions and don’t worry, it’s wholly justified.
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