|
June 6, 2008 @ The Rutledge — Kyle Andrews Kyle Andrews is Exorcising the Demons, to Our Benefit One year ago Nashville-based indie phenom Kyle Andrews' live shows consisted, for the most part, of intimate late night techno-folk sets that created a relaxed living room vibe. About six months ago that all changed. If music can be viewed as an outward expression of something internal, perhaps channeling an emotion that might otherwise result in unlawful behavior, then it's likely that Andrews' internal life has taken a darker turn in the past eight months. Kyle Andrews has gone electric, put together a killer band, and he's now creating some of the best angst-ridden alternative rock that I've heard since The Pixies hit college radio. Still utilizing computer-generated sounds and beats, his music has taken a turn from techno-folk to a more aggressive brand of alternative rock. Appearing shy and diffident yet as confident as ever, Andrews' demeanor is reminiscent of a young Michael Stipe—but he's sounding like Kurt Cobain in the best way possible. He continues to pack huge amounts of emotion in his lyrics by combining pregnant pauses with desperate histrionics within verses. Amid the driving guitars, Andrews maintains his unique ability to keep the focus on the lyrics and when he delivers a line like, "So why are you so afraid ... of nothing," you're pulled in. Friday night's (June 6,2008) set at The Rutledge was one of the best Nashville shows of 2008, and to punctuate the evening, Andrews had drummer Neil Mason of American Bang sit in on the final song to close out the show. What occurred in Andrews' life that triggered his musical shift we may never know, but we can be grateful that amazing art has emerged from the fire. Go see Kyle Andrews on his brief summer tour if he comes near your town. —Vincent Wynne
archives
|
