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Saturday, Day Two of the CWMAs, had three performances at three venues—almost too much to do in too little time. Feeling fickle? Fret not. Concert-goers can opt to mix-and-match an evening's performances by paying one flat fee—only six dollars—then, they are free to roam the town, venue to venue, and catch whatever acts they like. My top choices where The State Room and The Urban Lounge.---
Because of the comfortable seats and the ability to steal away into the shadows, the performers at The State Room didn't have much crowd participation to work off of. But, that didn't deter the opening act. The Devil Whale's cool, harmonious sound stole the stage. Playing that Indie-folk-trance that locals love, The Devil Whale hit on some old favorites, like "Butter for Burns" and worked out some new tunes they'll release in April on an EP. If you didn't see this band, you're vote might be skewed for the CWMAs. Be sure to check out this contender online (or buy an album at a local record store) before you cast your ballot.
Next, the youngsters from Provo, Desert Noises, shyly took the stage. Well, my mother told me to never trust a rock n' rollers without facial hair, and that family creed stood strong. Albeit, it's probably tough being a rock band in Provo, but these guys seemed too pretentious for their own good. I was reminded of Jeff Buckley ... when he was 12. The crowd was stunned when the lead singer collapsed like a wet noodle in emo-rock fashion with the last bars of the closing song.
I didn't get a chance to stick around for Michael Gross & The Statuettes; no doubt, they put on a good show.
Onward and uptown to dance, the crowded Urban Lounge was packed tighter than legs in too tight jeans. However, the floor provided the proper amount of up and down. By divine luck or systematic intervention by Jamie, Jackie and the entire CW crew, I managed, in one evening, to see both The Devil Whale and Laserfang, the dubious electro-dance-rockers. Playing fantastically romping tunes with enough keyboard to blow the roof off this week's Elton John/ Billy Joel concert, the crowd cheered with glee and sloshing beer.
If you missed the shows this week, there's still time. Check out the schedule for next weekend and don't forget to vote for your favorite band. And, with three votes you can stack 'em high or spread 'em out.