I just saw Architecture in Helsinki play in my home town, with Dr. Dog and Head of Femur opening.

Based only on the feeling I had upon leaving the venue, this was perhaps the best show I've ever seen. My right brain is buzzing, filling my whole body with adrenaline. I skipped the Pixies to see 'em, and there is absolutely no doubt in my mind I made the right decision.

See them while they're still touring these little venues. Head of Femur and Dr. Dog were also both very good, but AiH belongs to some sort of other parallel world of live bands.

One of my friends just sent me an email telling me how much they suck live. They're doing a free show here later this month (next week, I believe) and am hoping to see them.

I can't imagine thinking AiH sucked live, unless you just think they suck in general, which I could see. But liking their records and being disappointed by their execution seems impossible, because they are amazing musicians and play it more than satisfyingly. If you don't like their cutesy attitude, I don't see why you would like their records.

Truly, everything that comes out in their live shows is well represented in their records, and vice versa.