Figurines and Dappled Cities Played Mercury Lounge
Denmark's Figurines
Coming from the far off lands of Copenhagen and Sydney, Figurines and Dappled Cities played the final date of their tour last night at Mercury Lounge. This was their second straight night at the Lower East Side venue, and surprisingly, it wasnt packed.
Sydney natives Dappled Cities controlled the stage like a veteran band, commanding an immediately positive response from their audience. In essence, they are a veteran band with most of the members playing together since 1997, when they were only 15 years old. Theyve built a following in Australia, and only now are they making their move towards an American takeover. The vocals of guitarists Tim Derricourt and Dave Rennick really make the band unique, with each often ranging into falsetto hooks. At Mercury Lounge last night, it was that dramatic vocal exchange, as well as their excellent song-craft that made their performance special, especially with the grandiose set-closer Holy Chord.
Following Dappled Cities wouldnt be easy for Denmarks Figurines, but theyve been doing it for the entire tour, so they were prepared. In support of their new release When the Deer Wore Blue, Figurines blazed through a set full of the new songs, which show the band expanding their range, but mixing in some older favorites including the early highlight Silver Ponds. It was a strong set that never reached blow-you-away status that I hoped for, but when the band finished, the crowd cheered for more. And without ever leaving the stage, the quintet offered to play a couple more. Seconds into The Wonder, the first song of the encore, there was a magical spark. The songs fast tempo Built To Spill-guitar execution, and Christian Hjelms odd Isaac Brock-like vocals, Figurines was exactly what I needed in order to love this band. So, just as Dappled Cities did, Figurines finished their night perfectly, with the best songs of their set, leaving a more lasting impression.
Photos courtesy of [Jonny-Leather]