I came across this band a few years back when they played in the Kleine Zaal of the Melkweg. I was blown away by their sound and I predicted that the next time they played in Amsterdam it would be in a much bigger and less intimate venue. Well not all predictions come to pass as the Secret Machines are back again in the Kleine Zaal, though with a lineup change and on a new record label.
The guitarist Benjamin Curtis (brother of their vocalist Brandon Curtis) left the band in 2007 to focus on his other band, School of Seven Bells. He has been replaced by a new guitarist, Phil E. Karnats from Tripping Daisy. The band are touring to promote their third self titled studio album, Secret Machines.
The Silver Machines are a rock band and are very bombastic live. Their Psychedelic Rock sound is self described as Space Rock. When I saw them live the stage was dominated by the Josh Garza’s massive drum kit and I really enjoyed the trippiness of their otherworldly sound.
I think the Aldous Huxley quote that they put on their web site says a lot about the band.
After silence, that which comes nearest to expressing the inexpressible is music.
—Aldous Huxley
Frankly I’m surprised that a critically acclaimed band of this caliber has been so far mostly ignored by the music loving public. However as a music fan I am overjoyed to get to see them again in an intimate setting. If you like great live music you just have to check these guys out and be prepared to be blown away by their new lighting effects.
“Atomic Heels”
“Alone, Jealous, and Stoned” (Live in Las Vegas)
Concert details are here.
You can also catch the Secret Machines in the following venue’s as part of their tour.
20 Feb 2009 Nijmegen - Doornroosje
21 Feb 2009 Berlin - Frannz Club
22 Feb 2009 Hamburg - Logo
23 Feb 2009 Brussels - Botanique
24 Feb 2009 Rennes - UBU Club
26 Feb 2009 Paris - La Maroquinerie
27 Feb 2009 Caen - Cargo Club
28 Feb 2009 Lille - Le Grand Mix
