No. 30: The New Pornographers

The New Pornographers are what you would call a Canadian indie super-group.  Most of the band were all known in the Vancouver music scene before they formed.  Members of the group include well known solo artists Neko Case and AC Newman.  They have been putting out solid material for the last decade now and consistently make albums that definitely sound like a mish-mosh of many talented musicians.  They focus mostly on straight power-pop with crowd pleasing ballads and sing alongs.  Their album, 'Together', that came out this year has the old familiar rhythmic hooks and energy that the last album, 'The Challengers' was missing.  This is not to say the album doesn't have slower introspective songs as well, but The New Pornographers shine best when nailing that triumphant verse.  Like say, Rilo Kiley, this is a band you and your girlfriend could like for different reasons.  The guitar riffs are fun and sunny and sometimes come crashing down to reality.  In recent years front man AC Newman's lyrics have become more dark and cryptic.  Neko Case is not featured as much, but the sweet melodies contributed to with Kathryn Calder are still lovely.  There is definitely a lot to take in when seeing The New Pornographers live.  They have 8 members in the band and countless other contributors from bands like, The Dap Kings, Okkervil River, St. Vincent, and Beirut. You will here prominent piano, horns, and violin in just about every song.  If you have a chance to take in a few songs in I would.  They are playing on Friday at 4pm and as far as I can see Devo is the only competition they are up against.  The Black Keys are on after them so it might not be a bad idea to camp out and check em out.

Single from 'Together', "Your Hands"