Ünnecessary Ümlaut

The record label describes Patrick Watson, the man and the band, as a “musical mad scientist.” His live show at Du Nord was proof. This photo is Exhibit A.

Dark, dreamy, and playful. Crooning, sweeping, and stomping. Like carnies on a pirate ship. Really-freakin’ talented carnies. Every member of the band displayed such musical chops, we’re still buzzing.

So what’s with the megaphones?

After the mic crapped out on their final tune Patrick promised he’d make it up to us and ducked off stage. He returned wearing this backpack rigged with five loudspeakers blooming above, and paraded into the crowd. Followed by band members playing a singing saw, acoustic guitar, and some ramshackle percussion. All inches from our faces. Awesome.

Du Nord’s speakeasy/cabaret basement was the perfect setting for their lush, detailed songs. You could tell they’re not merely written; they’re concocted and composed. Re-worked and twisted into full-on movements and stories. There’s mad genius at work here.

The set was almost all new Wooden Arms material. Nothing as immediate as his previous album, but wonderful and moving just the same.  If you haven’t gotten into Patrick Watson yet, I strongly recommend starting with Close To Paradise.

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