Searching the Horizon

Darius Kinsey: Highlead logging using steam skidder

The New Britain Museum of American Art has a new exhibit titled Searching the Horizon: The Real American West 1830-1920 (through March 4th, 2012). As the title suggests, it contains art of and about the American west. Through paintings, photographs, sculptures and other objects, it explores four themes: Settlement, Landscape, Native Americans and Urbanization and Industry. I wasn't too impressed with the paintings, but the exhibit contains some great photography. Darius Kinsey (see the photo at left) chronicled the logging industry in the Pacific Northwest. His photos show the enormity of the undertaking, as well as the often dangerous activities it involved.

Upcoming shows

Two shows are coming up this month that should not be ignored (as opposed to all the other shows in Connecticut, most of which should be ignored. I kid...mostly). The first is Jeff Mangum (of Neutral Milk Hotel fame). This famous (Indie famous, not famous famous) recluse is finally out of his cave and playing shows again. Should be good. Don't bring a camera, he hates that. Also, you'll probably get thrown out if you use your phone. Just a warning. This Wednesday (the 18th) at 8:00pm at the Shubert in New Haven. A mere $45 per ticket with "convenience" charges. This might be your only chance. I almost saw him at All Tomorrow's Parties a few months back in New Jersey, but all three shows he played sold out.

Then, on the 28th of January Thurston Moore (of Sonic Youth fame) will play at the Wadsworth. This show is in support of his new album Demolished Thoughts. If you haven't heard it yet, check it out. It was produced by Beck and is completely different than anything he's ever done. While you're there, check out Patti Smith's Camera Solo.

And then, in February, on the 12th, Blind Pilot will play the Pearl Street Clubroom in Northampton Mass. I know, it isn't actually in Connecticut but most cool things aren't. Should be good.

Review: Jesse Sykes and the Sweet Hereafter / The Sadies

Jesse Sykes

I'm going to start this off with a wag of my finger at Hartford. Come on people, this was a great show and the house was pretty empty. I know they were up against the annual game dinner at the Half Door, but aren't there a few vegetarians in the area? I guess it was also a Sunday and honestly, I'm a little surprised that music and dancing aren't illegal on Sundays in Connecticut.

On to the show. The Sadies led off the night. I'll admit than I'm a bit of a philistine when it comes to the Sadies. I'm only familiar with their work with Neko Case and John Doe. They put on a great show. All the songs were well played, tight, and energetic. You could tell that they were a band that knew their music well played with a passion.

Jesse Sykes & The Sweet Hereafter / The Sadies

Jesse Sykes & The Sweet Hereafter and The Sadies will be playing at the Wadsworth this Sunday at 8pm (doors at 7pm). Should be a good show. If you aren't familiar with them, the Sadies are a Canadian Alt-Country band that have played with the likes of Neko Case and John Doe (of the punk band X). Jesse Sykes & The Sweet Hereafter are a Seattle-based freak-folk band. They have a very low-key sound, laid back and haunting.
The Wadsworth is a great venue. Concerts take place in the beautiful downstairs theater. Lest you think this will be some sober art event, you can buy beer in the lobby.
Arrive early check out Patti Smith's (Patti Smith!) "Camera Solo" and Claire Beckett's "Simulating Iraq". Both are great photography exhibits that will make you a more cultured and well-liked person.

The Album Leaf and Dinosaurs

Tonight at 7:00PM The Album Leaf is playing at the Wadswoth with Wess Meets West and Sister Crayon. Should be good. The Wadsworth makes a great venue. I saw Wye Oke there a few months back and it was excellent. $15 at the door. Doors are at 7. All ages.

The Album Leaf will also be playing All Tomorrow's Parties next Friday in New Jersey.

Tonight is also the premier of Terra Nova on Fox. My sister writes for this show. It will be fantastic.