Saw them in Tha D last night and was absolutely blown away. Even if you're not sold on the new record's direction (which I'm on the fence for) the new songs sounds much more gigantic and dangerous with their current 3 guitar/drums/bass lineup. I had this thought while they were about three songs in; they're the house band for your next night-time desert sandstorm. They don't just make a wall of sounds — walls can't sneak up and punch you in the mouth — but rather, they make cyclones of sound that surround you and send debris flying by that cut the shit out of you.

Beginning was heavy on songs from "Chain Gang of Love," which I'm not that familiar with, but they still sounded great. About 35 minutes in they did "That Great Love Sound," which I've always contended is the most underappreciated pop song of this decade, and it was fabulous with three driving guitars that just about run you over. Next was "My Boyfriend's Back" (gimmicky, but cute) and "Attack of the Ghost Riders." That marked a return to the 1st EP where they sounded a lot more savage, but the thinned down lineup of these songs made them sound a little skimpy in spots, at least compared to the new material. They closed after an hour and did an extended version of "Big City" complete with feedback fadeout for the encore. Awesome awesome awesome.

Afterward, got the new CD and an online-only EP for $10 and the guy threw in the "That Great Love Sound" 7" for free. Heading to the door, saw Sune Rose Wagner at a pool table and he gladly signed the 7" for me. Super nice guy, and Sharon Foo is my new rock goddess.

All in all, a terrific night, especially considering I had thought about skipping it earlier in the night. If any of you get a chance to see them, absolutely do it. You'll have a killer time.

Hmm, I'm debating seeing them next week. I've seen them twice and was disappointed both times. They had no stage presence and seemed genuinely bored to be onstage. Amusement Parks On Fire are opening for them on one of their nights here, maybe that'll be my excuse to go.

Hmmm... They weren't super engaging, but they weren't pissy either, just really focused on what they were doing. The third guitar player, dunno his name, is really fun to watch. He's super intense and at one point he was juggling between so many effects sounds that it looked like he was dancing a jig on his pedals. You'd dig him, Tania. He appeared to be of Indian-ish descent and is a good lookin' guy... just in case a little eye candy helps convince you to go.

3 shows at spaceland next week. hopefully i'll be able to attend one of them, but we'll see.

seen 'em twice, enjoyed them both times.

I thought they were decent, but having Autolux open for you is never a good idea if you plan on outdoing the support.

I didn't stick around for the Raveonettes, but Stu has this dead on.