A night out for us UK-based SXSW drop-outs, who really wanted to be in
Rob St John was the support. I thought he really showed promise, with some great support from his two band members. Seemingly in the territory of Low, but most closely aligned with Mark Kozalek/Red House Painters - who when talking to a member of the band after the show, he had never heard of, so there you go! Potentially a lo-fi gem.
Tall Firs are on their third record, but the first released via ATP. On the new record called ‘Out of it, Into it’, the harmonies and songs are delightfully intense and gentle in equal measure. Live, the songs take on a rawer edge. At times they sound a little REM or Bruce Springsteen, at others more like Kings of Convenience. Often the difference in style depends on which of the two friends has taken on the ‘lead singer’ role – something they change throughout the set. What is consistent, however, is the great friendship that Dave Mies and Aaron Mullen have going – they’re very relaxed together and they have the straight and funny guy routine off pat!
The only complaints of the evening are the incompatibility between a seated band and a low stage (meaning we could see almost nothing of the guys and their guitars), and the rude audience members who clearly had no intention of listening, and chatted throughout.
But the band are clearly delighted to be part of the ATP crowd and are enjoying being on the road and chatting to fans. The new record was pretty much covered during the hour long set and comes highly recommended for your 2012 album collection.
Lovely evening.
Pete & Lou
Rob St John’s album Weald is available on Toad Records
Tall Firs – Out of It, Into It is available via ATP Records
Our review of the album