So TJ’s In The Square went well then? Our Joy man was there and, inbetween DJing quality indie to 2000 people (AT LEAST), seemed to give the bleary thumbs up to the John Sicolo tribute day. It’s worth remembering though, amongst the whirl of reformed bands and charity fundraising, that there are still a small number of good people brightening up Newport’s music scene, one decent gig at a time. One such is Steve from Gathered In Song, someone who comprehensively knows his Americana onions, and hey, someone who’s bringing you this evening for frigging zero pounds. Deer Park will fill the plaid gap in your heart for sure, and if they’re being supported by a band who bring to mind ace country-psychers Skygreen Leopards as well, then SO MUCH THE BETTER. Yer headline band will also be making two further South Wales appearances: on the 17th in Cardiff’s Koko Gorillaz, and the day after in the same city’s Buffalo Bar, as part of a Truck festival warm up evening. It’s an agreeable bombing campaign.
Gathered in Song presents…Deer Park
A free show!!
Blending the ramshackle confessionals of Okkervil River and Bright Eyes, the energy and infectious melodies of The Hold Steady, the noisy indie rock punk clatter of The Thermals and the downtrodden, steel guitar laced americana of Richmond Fontaine, Deer Park are without doubt our favourite find of 2010.
From Dublin via London, and with members spanning the UK, the band (using the term loosely) are managed by Gilles Pugatch in New York who also manages Chris Mills and recent Bella Union signings Mountain Man. Their debut album was mastered by Billy Stull (Okkervil River, Midlake, Centro-matic) and features members of The Oxygen Ponies and Woodpigeon. The beautifully packaged artwork was done by Sub Pop’s Jesse Le Doux (Modest Mouse, Iron and Wine, The Shins, Elliott Smith etc).
Deer Park have recently played with Ted Leo and the Pharmacists, The Acorn and Paul Simon’s son Harper Simon, which amply demonstrates their wide appeal.
Fans of The Mountain Goats, The National, The Replacements, Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, Ryan Adams, Guided By Voices, Neutral Milk Hotel or anyone we’ve already mentioned need to come join the party.
“This is ramshackle, folky rock…an enjoyable ride – as rough round the edges and tumultuous as life itself” – The Line Of Best Fit
Support comes from:
Smokestacks – Great local mellowness on a Vetiver/Skygreen Leopards/Buffalo Springfield kind of vibe – www.myspace.com/smokingstacks
Burning Branches – brand new Newport based band with great psychedlia and power pop influences
Ffred Jones – Welsh acoustic singer songwriter with supports with Okkervil River on his CV – www.myspace.com/ffredjones
ENTRY IS FREE (donations in the hat towards costs always appreciated – give what you can afford!)
Please visit www.gatheredinsong.com
