The Sea and Cake

<img src="http://www.qromag.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/theseaandcakeoct16.jpg" alt=" " />Chicago's The Sea and Cake brought their uniqueness to Portland's Crystal Ballroom on a cool October night. ...
The Sea and Cake : Live

Chicago’s The Sea and Cake brought their uniqueness to Portland’s Crystal Ballroom on a cool Saturday night, October 16th, opening for headliner Broken Social Scene (QRO photos).  Though The Sea and Cake don’t have a new album, their most recent being 2008’s Car Alarm (QRO review), drummer John McEntire (also of Tortoise – QRO live review) produced Broken Social Scene’s latest album, Forgiveness Rock Record (QRO review), which most likely explains their opening slot. 

The Sea and Cake can’t be boxed in with the bevy of bands currently on the indie rock circuit.  Their signature move involves incorporating jazz elements into their songs.  A music theory professor could have a field day deconstructing them.  Drummer John McEntire carried the band during their 45 minute set, in which he perfectly displayed the magic that can occur only during a live performance.  Genuine enthusiasm emanated from him as he grinned and grooved while hitting the skins.  Several concertgoers were overhead remarking on his skills, which one couldn’t help but notice.  The rest of the band certainly weren’t shrinking violets either.
The Sea and Cake - with Kevin Drew in the back

John McEntireFor nearly a third of their set, The Sea and Cake were joined by several members of Broken Social Scene, who brought out a variety of instruments including the flute, oboe, and saxophone.  What could’ve turned into a messy hootenanny instead showcased both bands’ larger than life musical chops.  Musicians out there, class is in session.  You might want to take some notes.
The Sea and Cake w/ Broken Social Scene

Categories
Concert Reviews
  • Anonymous
    at
  • No Comment

    Leave a Reply

    Album of the Week