So wednesday night I decided to lumber my way up to The Boro to grab a couple beers (plus an avacado from MexiMart) and see some live music.  The locals slated for the evening were The Most Amazing Century of Science, Crayons & Antidotes and The Langoliers, all of which are well seasoned locals that gaurantee a good show everytime.  However, this particular night is one of those uncommon instances when the touring act practically stole the show.  When I saw this gangly bunch of punks take the stage in suits (and a dress) I knew I was in for a treat.

The Ford Theatre Reunion’s sound can best be described by this observer as the intersextion between Mischief Brew, Tom Waits and Creature Feature, though I’m sure there are much better comparisons out there that I’m just not familiar with.  Their entourage consisted of the standard guitar/bass/drums accompanied by accordian and keys/clarinet, with the occational banjo cameo.  Their collective stage presence was abrasive and slightly creepy at the same time.  The female vocalist especially performed with a virulent confidence in her voice that was refreshing and spot on.  Also I must say that was the first instance that I’ve seen an electric accordian pulled off in a live performance situation (and with palpable enthusiasm).  The use of the electric banjo in the last few songs reinforced the perviously established folk-punk influence of the music.

I find it is often the case when I see a band in this style that their recordings don’t reflect the energy of their live performance.  Fortunately that is not the case with The Ford Theatre Reunion.  I strongly recommend the track “Tea & Cakes”.

You can check ’em out for yourself and maybe drop ’em a little cash if you’re stacked over at their Bandcamp page.  Or maybe just go “like” them on the Facebox.