Last week, I had the opportunity to check out Broken Bells' secret, acoustic show at Webster Hall. Ah, the perks that come with my incredible summer internship...
Danger Mouse (Brian Burton, most commonly known for being one half of Gnarls Barkley) and James Mercer (lead singer of The Shins) ripped through a four song set that was so tantalizingly brief, it went by in no time at all. Mercer has a commanding voice, one that meshes perfectly with Danger's infectious beats and hooks. It took the band all of thirty seconds to ensnare their audience, perfectly captivating and mesmerizing the intimate crowd. It was like all the air had been sucked out of the room in an instant, or perhaps people just didn't realize what an incredible showcase they were in for.
Lead single "The High Road" has never sounded better. Stripped bare of its synthy, psychedelic sound transformed the song into something passionate and meaningul. Mercer wailed and waxed poetic about life's hardships and we genuinely believed every word that rolled effortlessly off his tongue
When Mercer announced that they would be playing "The Ghost Inside" I was exuberant. My favorite song on the entire album, "Ghost" was also transformed, into a quicker paced, gorgeous rock anthem. As Danger focused intensely on the simple drumbeat, the band attacked the song with unexpected ferocity.
The duo slowed things down a bit with their song "Citizen," a mellow tune with heart that weaves the story of eternal hopeless. Deep stuff, but eloquently and gorgeously played by Danger on his classic style organ. It truly owns the songs, taking the reins from Mercer's vocals.
The fourth song was "Insane Lullaby" of off Sparkelhorse's Dark Night of the Soul. It was an unexpected turn from the band; it came across as a moving tribute to a musician who is no longer with us.
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