I feel like it's important to mention the difficulty I've had in writing about this particular band. This is complete re-write number four, or better. You see, there is an exhaustive and jarring disconnect between what I feel when I watch Other Body, and what I (now) know about their music.
To aid understanding, generally, when I'm going to write about a band, I take notes on my impression as I see them play for the first time. My initial notes on Other Body are basically fetish pornography. It's the harshness. It's edgy. So, of course, I want to fuck it.
And in looking at McLees's vicious countenance in clashing with a stunning smile I was, as anyone would be, instantly smitten AF with all things Other Body.
After leaving that first viewing, all assortments of violently horny, I engaged in some good-old journalistic investigation. A deeper listen revealed pounding noise rock produced by pain. To be very clear, pain but like, the unsexy variety.
Although loss is not easily dealt with, thankfully, the byproduct of songwriting-as-a-healthy-coping-strategy has, in this case, left us with some seriously fuckwithable abso-bangers. An incredible tribute.
Other lyrical themes I'm keen on like … wishes for total oblivion (likely produced, inevitably, by some combination of imminent environmental catastrophe, an absurd political climate and, like, Miami traffic) make Other Body's most popular tune, Imperial Cloud , a relatable listen.
A second and then third show, they're on my favorites list for sure. While you'd be blessed to see Other Body play on their own, it's unlikely the rest of the line-up will disappoint. This year they played with Russian Circles and Gouge Away at Churchill's Pub, a show I will forever be incredibly bitter I arrived to late. They've also shared a stage with some of my South Florida favorites including Vacancy and ta bien.
If I've somehow yet to make it painfully apparent, you'd be remiss in skipping the next Other Body show. Seeing Israel bitch-slap a bass is a right of passage. And Zantua's drummer-gloves will remind you to drink beer, water, beer. Although godly in their approachability (how did you just smile at me through this harsh Boston accent and list of demands you beautiful bastard) no need to tell em' Bateman sent ya, just pay attention.
Abbie Bateman 6/10/2019
Comments