The Liars
The Middle East Upstairs, Cambridge, MA
August 29, 2002

These days it takes more and more to get me excited to go to shows, which is why I was particularly surprised to have been so blown away by The Liars. Certainly one of the most original four pieces I've seen in quite a while. They are a storm brewing on stage. From the outset of each song you can see the cloudy skies and feel the winds warning you of what's to come. As the song progresses, the winds turn to gale force and the hurricane takes shape. The guitarist, bass player, and singer each take turns manipulating loops and effects to supplement the thumping bass and drum beats. I wasn't incredibly keen to go to a late show on a Thursday night, but these guys kicked my butt. I heard inklings of older Dischord bands like Circus Lupus and particularly ¡The Nation of Ulysses!, but I mean that only as a compliment for they are anything but recycled. To invert The Hives catchphrase, The Liars are crime and you are law. And the law ain't got a chance.

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