KneeJerk Reaction: Peter, Bjorn & John @ Webster Hall 4.29.09
Here’s the thing. Perhaps you can judge from this picture, but one of my former ‘new favs’ has devolved into douchedom. The swedish trio have always seemed like they were playing with someone else’s tools, dancing in daddy’s shoes. On ‘Writer’s Block’ I believe this was done to great effect. On ‘Living Thing’ I think they fell short. In concert, I believe I was proven right? Their newer songs felt cold and too minimalist, not really inspiring the crowd, aside from standout ‘Lay it Down’ and the popular “Nothing to Worry About’ (which sounds much better when I don’t think the sample is out of sync).
The songs from ‘Writer’s Block’ and the rare earlier taste are much looser and enjoyable, giving you room to breathe, dance. They explored the depths of ‘Objects of My Affection’, ‘Up Against the Wall’ and the resilient ‘Young Folks’ (yes, it’s still a good song, fuck off), devolving each into digression or implosion before returning to the concise but full form. I’d still recommend them live, but with the caveat that you should have paid $120 to see them on their last go-round (at Bowery NOT Roseland… ahem). Here’s hoping the minimalist pop movement blows over before their next album is developed.
Chairlift? Ugh. Listen, ‘Bruises’ is a very enjoyable song, but lady, you do NOT need to put that much effort into playing the keyboard. And dude, take OFF that over-sized vest.
