Ian was put off coming along to yesterday's fine gig by Richmond Fontaine by the fact that they were described as alt-country. Labels? I hate them! Other than the fact that their songs all have a story to tell and deal with people whose lives are often tough, there was scarcely any country element in their music.The only alt-country thing about the gig was the audience: a sea of men in checked, flannel shirts. In my bright yellow T shirt I was definitely not following the dress code!
The band were a delight. Tight, subtle, well-arranged, precise rock songs which never outstayed their welcome. The singer, Willy Vlautin,has a parallel career as a writer and it shows.Each song is like a short story. I kept thinking of John Steinbeck and Raymond Carver. I must read one of his novels.
But if I was the promoter I'd have certainly have had some complaints about his appearance. Willy was clean-shaven! Surely that must be breach on contract? There has to be a clause that demands that sensitive alt-rock singer-songwriters have a big bushy beard? Whatever next? Metal artists with no tattoos and sensible haircuts?
What is the world coming to?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richmond_Fontaine
http://blog.richmondfontaine.com/
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