Heartless Bastards - The Independent San Francisco 11/9/2008

The independent can really produce a great concert experience, or a nightmare dependent on the crowd and band. There is nothing worse than a crappy band going through the motions in the worst ventalated club in San Francisco. However, when a band shows up and really gets going, the club has an energy that can't be beat. Last night was one of those good nights.





The Heartless Bastards are three piece band out of Ohio. Lablemates with the Black Keys, and currently sharing producers with Spoon, they have a sound all there own. Part Delta Blues, part classic rock, even a little punk. Erica Wasserman, the lead singer has a voice that really needs to be heard to appreciated. As strong and forceful a front lady as they come.





I last saw this band in 2006 at twelve galaxies in support of their then new release, "into the open." It was a good set, but nothing that would stand enough to be remembered weeks later. Last night, though, was a much different case. Since I last saw the band, the Base Player and Drummer have been replaced by to new musicians. The new version of the band rocked from the start, and it was apparent Erica had an energy and passion that seemed to be missing the prior show. The drummer really rocked, hitting his kit so hard he knocked the mikes over 3X. The new bass player as well, though dressed for a hunting trip, really layed down some great grooves and really played powerfly.





The band had the crowd going from the start, and really utilized the small space fully. The closing song of the first set, as new song from the upcoming February release, was as good a live performance I've ever seen. It turned from a slow seathing blues number to classic booming zepplin like chorus and back for 10 minutes. The band returned from a short break to play a great three song encore, and left the stage leaving everyone satisfied. Don't miss this band.





Fans of Black Keys, Spoon, White Stripes, Creedance Clearwater Revival, Alison Kraus, Led Zeppelin.

http://www.myspace.com/heartlessbastards

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