Since 2010, The Bright Light Social Hour’s (TBLSH) sound has expanded from their previous post-rock EPs to their current soulful, psychedelic rock.
With the Austin, Texas, band’s trippy sonic waves that tumble through listeners’ ears, TBLSH is able to expand minds through speakers and headphones. But they are especially known for their live performances and emanating sound, sure to fill up any live venue.
Simply checking this band out on iTunes honestly won’t do much good. Yeah, their produced music is clearly pleasing, but their studio music doesn’t do them justice. Even listening to their live YouTube performances through headphones is better than listening to the music you’d find on the album.
If you’re not already a hard-core TBLSH fan, don’t be discouraged from seeing the band in person. Their hard-rock and post-rock sound isn’t as identifiable at their live shows, instead replaced with a crossover vibe distinct from other music.
TBLSH performs in an epic way that crosses multiple genres, bringing together crowds who love all different types of rock and alternative. Bringing in synth sounds with a keyboard, southwestern guitar solos, and traces of disco rock with a funky bass line, TBLSH creates a completely separate type of music that sounds like five different sampled genres combined during their live shows.
In September 2012, the band performed their hit song, “I Need Your Love,” at Stubb’s in Detroit. It had a soulful energy comparable to the revamped, funkier Beatles music heard from the movie “Across the Universe.”
Notorious for their retro scene as they perform, the band submerges themselves entirely in their presentation. Most members of the band wear their hair long, while dressing in a bohemian style. Their natural rock star look seems to complete the live experience, connecting their outward appearance to the inward musical flair.
TBLSH is coming to Seattle to perform in a smaller venue than they are usually accustomed to. It can be expected that their dominant vocals and rock ’n’ roll sound will fill up Tractor Tavern on Friday. Check out the show for what’s bound to be an incredible experience.
Reach writer Rebecca Gross at arts@dailyuw.com. Twitter: @becsgross
