March of the robots

Hmm ... why are the two prominent minimalist fuzz bombers which use Japan as a prefix both duos? Coincidence ... maybe? Anyway, Japandroid did not follow King Khan and BBQ at Bluesfest - I went off to see Neko Case. These photos were taken July 15, just after 8 p.m. on the Subway Stage, and are being regurgitated on my blog now because as promised at the culmination of their set, they're back in town to play a much more intimate set at Mavericks tonight. As you can probably tell, it was pretty dark and cloudy when I started snapping these photos - and that waterproofing isn't just for show.

First up, drummer David Prowse. No relation to the guy who filled out the Darth Vader suit, I presume.





And then there's singer-guitarist Brian King - never leave town without your staircase.



The lighting wasn't quite as good at his end of the stage.



They're quite an active lot.



If you take a look at the larger versions you'll see Brian has a Christmas Polaroid taped to his Telecaster.



Brian steps out.



Guitar-whacking action!



Brian can't really fly.



Hair-shaking action!



Brian goes down.



David sings!



Well-lit action (not really)!



Big finish!



That was entertaining, though I still prefer Japanthers, if only because I've seen them up close. Perhaps I'll have more grounds for comparison tonight when the hit the stage along with The Coathangers and Mt. St. Helens Vietnam Band tonight.