Pickwick in Seattle | 12.08.11

photograph by Kristen Marie, handwriting by Chelsey Scheffe

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Hacienda Motel by Pickwick | download

Venue: The Neptune
Links: Jessica Dobson + Campfire OK + Pickwick
The first opener was Jessica Dobson who, by the way was astounding from the minute she began looping her electric guitar then layering on powerful vocals. Her band (known as Deep Sea Diver) was fantastically talented and every song was infectiously catchy. She began solo with a cover of Have Your Self a Merry Little Christmas and it was enchanting. Sign up for the Deep Sea Diver mailing list and you’ll get that song for free.

This is a terrible way to introduce them but Campfire OK has never been a favorite of mine. However (let me save myself) as their set went on, they grew on me a bit. I have a slight aversion to The Decemberists which they seemed to channel at times but by the end their stage presence was infectious and their energy sincere. I cannot argue with that. Also, Melody has an incredible voice.

Chloe & I met up with Tyler Kalberg, the man responsible for the Pickwick Suzzallo Reading Room video among many others with the group. He introduced us to a few local musicians, one of which was a member of Pickwick, Michael who was sharp and well dressed. I found it amusing that for almost all of the opening performances, Galen’s hair was bobbing in front of me or somewhere within view. It’s kind of fantastic how tight and supportive these bands are of each other, enough to mingle in the crowds. They sold out the show and I was told it was quite a large venue for them.

Pickwick came on and the electricity intensified. The soul that boy has is inspired. Though their recordings are great I must say there isn’t really a fair comparison to a live performance. To appreciate what they do you’ve got to see them work. Hacienda Motel was probably the highlight of the night. Though I have confidence in them I think that’ll be a tough tune to beat. They played a few new songs as well which showcased Galen’s pipes at their finest. I can’t wait for their new release. Tyler is with them now as they’ve cooped themselves up somewhere down near portland to record. Marvelous things are to come from this group, I can feel it.

Live From The Basement – Pickwick by Sound on the Sound

Oh! And a happy Christmas Eve!

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