The end of another weekend is looming and I've been lazy about blogging but did want to register another review of the Conor Oberst show I took in a couple of nights ago (and I realized this entry was going to be too late to urge you to see his show in Taos).

Bright Eyes fans are still kind of scratching their collective heads as to why Conor put his name on this latest work and not Bright Eyes (aside from the obvious fact that he brought in a whole different band to back him up) as its as solid as any thing that carries the Bright Eyes name. Having been fortunate enough to see the last Bright Eyes tour (Cassadaga) I had a nice benchmark to compare Conor "solo" to and it was like seeing a band that starts modest and grows into rockstars (see Coldplay) only in reverse.

While I dont know Conor personally, I've read enough to know that he probably is a perfectionist and the last Bright Eyes tour was a clear example of how he likes things executed. It was tight, choregraphed, and very much a production. The Conor "solo" show, with the Mystic Valley Band, was a much more laid back affair, with some of the other band members actually taking lead on some of the songs. I would use the word loose, but even as it seemed Conor was letting his hair down, the band seemed to all be awaiting his every cue and never missed a beat (and the sound was impeccable). If you're checking in from other parts if the country and you know Conor is going to be close by, this is one I would highly recommend. 

The schedule is packed in the next 2 months, with Secret Machines/The Dears only a week away (just listened to the upcoming Dears today and its fab). MSTRKRFT is also coming but I dont think I'll be able to swing that. OASIS with Ryan Adams opening (? or !) just got scheduled - will be present for that. Oh, and Sisters of Mercy (! or ?) also coming. Ooooh...Jason Mraz too. sorry, that was uncalled for . Say good night Indie....