The rock-synth band, WRITER brought its laid back vibes to Bowery Ballroom Thursday night. When brothers, James and Andy Ralph, and long-time friend, Joshua Greco, walked on the stage they didn’t give an introduction. Instead, the trio leapt into “Family Dinner” and left listeners in a ‘90s rock haze.
The southern California influence is evident in WRITER’S demeanor and its first album “Brotherface.” Their sound is understated and authentic and while most of the first album consists of ocean odes, the band has distinguished themselves from surfer rock. The mix of grainy vocal harmonies, tambourine and strong drum beats amount to a methodical compilation that rolls in like waves in a storm.
Those who did not show up early missed a tour through WRITER’S evolving sound. They played “Hot Days” and then moved to the more electric stylings “IE,” “Neon” and “Mosquito Bitten.” In the short time since relocating, that Brooklyn grit has attached itself to WRITER and the end result is pretty powerful. Their sophomore album, Principle Web is set to be released in early April 2016.
Brooklyn based Nude Beach followed WRITER. The trio’s slow and steady pub-rock provided the perfect segue from Writer into the raucous Ezra Furman. On stage, Furman spews every thought that enters his mind and gives a performance worthy of Sid Vicious or the New York Dolls.
Article: Alx Bear