July 11, 2006
Georgie James & Camera Obscura @ Black Cat
Written by DCist contributor Ian Buckwalter
D.C. music fans still lamenting the loss last fall of Q and not U had two reasons to celebrate last night. Not only was Georgie James, Q drummer John Davis' new project with Laura Burhenn, playing yet another DC-area show, but they were playing with Scottish twee darlings Camera Obscura, who are so good at doing the "Belle and Sebastian thing" that it's quite possible they may do it a little better than B&S themselves sometimes.
As Georgie James took the stage, a line of people still waiting to get into the Black Cat extended halfway down the block. The story has been much the same elsewhere. The two bands have just started a tour that will take them all the way from Boston to Portland and back again. In Boston and New York, not a stray ticket could be found.
And with good reason. Georgie James' live shows have been getting better and better since the band started playing out earlier this year, and the excited crowds at their shows already seem primed to break out in impromptu sing alongs, even though the band hasn't even released a proper record yet. They're just that catchy. And more than that, they seem to have a lot of fun up there, which is transferred to their audiences and magnified the more people come out to each show. All the live gigs they've been playing have paid off. Even with a new touring drummer last night, (Cale Parks filling in for Andew Black), the band was extremely tight, and John and Laura's sweet harmonies, along with Adam Robinson's enthusiastic bass, had to put a smile on even the most dour hipster's face.
Camera Obscura refused to be upstaged. The two bands are extremely well suited to touring together, as Camera's twee pop with the occasional country flourish goes down even more sweetly than it already would with Georgie James as a lead-in. It's quite possible that Camera could even get by on singer Tracyanne Campbell's charms alone, but that might start to wear thin after a while. Luckily, her voice is not all they have going for them, and they were as appreciative of the large crowd as the crowd was of them.
Most fans in the room seemed fairly new to the band, but still enthusiastic. Camera Obscura's latest record has continued the critical-darling trend of their last, and this time around they're adding a significant amount of satellite radio airplay to the mix. Tracyanne asked at one point who had their first record, as it turns out the cover model was at the show, and was met with slightly embarrassed silence. The band just smiled and continued on. By the time they reached the much-clamored for encore, they were leading the assembly in waltzes in the crowded room, rhythmically complex hand-clapping, and shy twee smiles that would have made Calvin Johnson proud.
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tracyanne looked sleepy.
I thought Georgie James sucked, I'm sorry.
Camera Obscura were amazinggg!
Wait, which club was this?
I just don't understand the appeal of Georgie James. I think they're average at best (but I was still umimpressed). The only thing they have going for them is how easy Laura is on the eyes.
I have to agree with Joe. Please don't hype a band that sucked because you think they are cool. The band was boring and not a unique element was to be heard.
I was unfamilar with both bands before the evening. Camera Obscura is an amazing band for a number of reasons from composition to performance.
Oh, now I look stupid. Thanks.
so since you don't like them, suddenly anyone who says they like them publicly is just trying to score hip-points? somebody's taking a long ride on the ego train.
i wonder if maybe, just maybe, it might be possible that there are some people with different aesthetic sensibilities than you who actually like the band for the band, and not as some kind of pose?
or is that not possible since it's not an option in your world?
and hey, i thought camera obscura was pretty cool, but i wouldn't by any stretch call them "unique". and who says everybody has to break new ground anyhow?
How many show reviews a year does Georgie James get?
And no, those of us lamenting the breakup of Q & Not U are not at all thrilled with a band doing late-70s-esque pop numbers. Perhaps you should go back and listen to "No Kill No Beep Beep."
And um... Laura Burhenn looks skinny and strung out. Somebody feed her a Luther and give her the itis, you know what I'm saying?
Why does everyone have to be so mellow these days?
I know a number of people who don't like Georgie James. I think it stems from the inability of their cold, black hearts to let the love shine in and make their butts jiggle to the beat. It always makes me think of that Simpsons episode where Bart sells his soul to Milhouse, and then he can't laugh because laughter is the language of the soul (according to Pablo Neruda).
ladi dadi, you are quite an asshole.
Wow, the quality of comments on this site is really decreasing.
Name calling? Check
"___ sucks"? Check
Personal attacks? Check
Is anybody from DCist paying attention to this string? Guys?
I'm with Gabe Frylock on this. In my experience, the subset of people who don't like Georgie James are identical to the subset of people who need to be pushed out to sea on an ice floe and forgotten about. Having duly prepped their arms for "maximum folding" by attending area concerts, they'll no doubt stay warm until they make landfall in Greenland.
One of these days, Georgie James will play Fort Reno, and on that day, history will record the first ever incidence of a Fort Reno concertgoer experiencing a moment in which they do not take themselves and/or their lifestyle so deadly effing seriously.
Presumably, that moment will be followed by dogs fornicating with cats and the moon colliding with the sun.
"I think it stems from the inability of their cold, black hearts to let the love shine in and make their butts jiggle to the beat."
Or it could be that their giant craniums are impenetrable to giant sappy pieces of superficial dookie. Or perhaps they just demand something a little more from their pop music than butt jiggling.
Anon--who posts comments on this board who isn't an asshole? Please, leave your obvious observations at home.
Wow, DCist Jason. It took me a few reads but I realize what you are saying... because people don't like a band that you have decided is cool they deserve to be put on an ice floe and forgotten about.
Hmm... Let me see, there was nothing original, unique, compelling or entertaining about Georgie James. The female vocalist has a weak imitation of Beth Orton voice and the guy can't sing. The lyrics are not unique, too many of the songs have the same theme and pattern.
We always welcome your opinions here, but please keep our comment policy in mind and curb the personal attacks.
Yes, please, pardon us Jason, for not enjoying the fluff that fills you with such glee. Hey, I hear that new Adam Sandler movie is HI-larious! Did you see the part where the kid gets hit in the nose with the baseball?
Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go take myself really effing seriously. Arms crossed? Check. Scowl on? Check. All right, time to put on some Godspeed You! Black Emperor.
Like I said: Prepare those arms for MAXIMUM FOLDING!!
Cap'n, I just can't fold them anymore! She can't bend any further!
Consider this comment my notice of copyright on "Rob Goodspeed You! Black Emperor," whether for merchandise, Halloween costume ideas, or future film rights.
First thing - I think Georgie James benefits from their associations with Q and Not U in terms of fan. I am part of that group. Because I was so excited about that band's creativity and excitement, I was naturally excited about Georgie James and Ris Paul Ric. Even more intriguing than particular songs was how their music hung together and evolved, which follows in my third and fourth points.
Second thing - they have a history in this town. People, inlcuding myself, like that.
Third thing - they are veteran musicians doing something new and ambitious. They have a lot of tools on their belt and they are applying it to something outside their normal range. That process has so far been interesting.
Fourth thing - despite being veterans, they are a new band with a new sound. They have not released an official EP or LP yet and for that reason alone, it's sort of early to say they suck and there is nothing original about them. Could anyone have predicted "Power" by listening to "No Kill No Beep Beep?"
Commenting boards have a way of tending toward radical subjectivity because of the disconnect from people. Confrontational arguments are much less vicious in person because our dimensions of communication, including the empathy of simply looking at someone's face or hearing their voice, allow us to be more precise. Also we exercise more control in front of people who can see us, quite possibly just so they don't get angry and hit us. So much for the interdependent internet communities of the future....
Oh no! Be careful. It's hard enough trying to clean up ONE broken social scene!
First thing - I think Georgie James benefits from their associations with Q and Not U in terms of fan. I am part of that group. Because I was so excited about that band's creativity and excitement, I was naturally excited about Georgie James and Ris Paul Ric. Even more intriguing than particular songs was how their music hung together and evolved, which follows in my third and fourth points.
Second thing - they have a history in this town. People, inlcuding myself, like that.
Third thing - they are veteran musicians doing something new and ambitious. They have a lot of tools on their belt and they are applying it to something outside their normal range. That process has so far been interesting.
Fourth thing - despite being veterans, they are a new band with a new sound. They have not released an official EP or LP yet and for that reason alone, it's sort of early to say they suck and there is nothing original about them. Could anyone have predicted "Power" by listening to "No Kill No Beep Beep?"
Commenting boards have a way of tending toward radical subjectivity because of the disconnect from people. Confrontational arguments are much less vicious in person because our dimensions of communication, including the empathy of simply looking at someone's face or hearing their voice, allow us to be more precise. Also we exercise more control in front of people who can see us, quite possibly just so they don't get angry and hit us. So much for the interdependent internet communities of the future....
Go ahead Kriston, we copyrighted "Goodspeed You! Blog Emperor" many moons ago.
Gleefully beating Jason to the punch: Kriston, you magnificent bastard.
Wow, Jacques, you astound me so with your music reviews, but your comments... You're like a modern-day, indie-music Aristophanes! Will you be my teacher? You can call me grasshopper.
Seriously, are you in a sociology class and wanted to share the wisdom you learned about internet communication at last week's lecture? "So much for the interdependent internet communities of the future...." -- what the hell is that supposed to mean? Mutually connected Internet societies? What does that have to do with Georgie James or the fact that extremist language is normally used in comments on messenging boards?
Georgie James is not doing anything new--it's rehash of late-70s-pop with kinda lazy vocals thrown on top. Shit's pretty trendy right now.
But they're not bad at what they do--the album is perfectly fine. My original comment was "How many show reviews does Georgie James get on DCist?" (or a variation for the annoyingly meticulous) because it feels like all I ever read about is Georgie James, Georgie James, Georgie James on DCist (and in the coverage of the music scene as well). I don't understand the big deal, but they're music doesn't affect me like soma, as it seems to work on DCist Jason.
So... I didn't see any extreme language in there... Until the Georgie James Lovers (GJLs) came in and started calling us that disagree blackhearted and deserving to be put on ice floes to nowhere.
THEY STARTED IT! THEY STARTED IT! Boo hoo... I'm totally crying to my mommy...
What does this teach us? Georgie James Lovers are nothing but a bunch of big ol' meanies.
Georgie James doesn't have an album out. Not even an EP.
They have a demo.
Rob Goodspeed is the black emperor of my heart. Lift your skinny fists like antenna to Ann Arbor.
Seeing Georgie James live is so underwhelming and quite honestly, just boring. They're not doing anything new and no one would give a damn if the fat one hadn't been in Q and Not U. No, they haven't officially released anything yet, but what does that matter? The live show is what sets you apart these days. Not how great you sound when your tracks are overly produced and the timing of the hand claps is perfect.
I dig music....
IM ON DRUGS!!!
Kids, let's not get so serious. Everyone has opinions. Some have stronger ones than others. Some like to make fun of others' opinions. It is fun to have an opinion AND to mock the opinions of others.
And remember, this is a comments section that will continue for the forseeable future - you are NOT going to get the last word, and there is always someone more witty and eloquent than you.
At the risk of being branded as "in the tank" for Georgie James, who are just one of many delightful DC bands, I'd like to point out that they're not mindless pop, they're pretty sharp pop. Far from "superficial dookie," I think some of their songs carry quite sophisticated emotional and psychological themes. Now, I suppose you could contend (and already sort of have) that I only think that's the case because I'm hopelessly emotionally and psychological stunted and wouldn't recognize a piercingly witty Fieldsian observation of the vagaries of the human condition capable of upending centuries of human social philosophy if it hit me square in the groin, not to mention the garden variety pithy statements that dot the "clever pop" landscape like so many rhododendrons, but I can assure you without a trace of a doubt that that's not only a completely unwinnable argument, but eminently loseable from your side.
So on to why they're likeable? A pretty subjective area, but as for me, I was a fan of Laura Burhenn's work but always thought her palette was a little limited, she's a real solid songwriter but seemed to sort of confine herself to darker textures. Working with someone else, especially someone who forces her into lighter, bouncier territory, led her to really blossom as an artist, and the juxtaposition of her hazy, twilit lyrical style with Davis' upbeat, tambourine-toting jangle is really engaging. And as for the "70's pop" catchphrase that keeps recurring in both positive and negative reviews of the band: they don't sound like the Eagles, or Fleetwood Mac, or any of that crowd, because Georgie James, like all those bands, has a distinct personality, untaintable by indie-rock algebra (a + b - c^d = band) and like any personality, it appeals to some and not to others. It seems to me, though, that those who like them like them for the right reasons (e.g. emotional resonance, honest musical appreciation), and those that dislike them do so for the wrong reasons (i.e. kneejerk iconoclasm, subcultural elitism, and/or other amusical concerns). So while it would be fun to add the pro/anti GJ factions to Martin's list of DC-area feuds, this is sort of like the pro/anti Ben's Chili Bowl argument, which only serves to identify the mentally ill.
To summarize, yes I realize that it's sparklingly cool to be sooo over the popular bands before the first proper album is even out, but in this case the hype is justified, so don't waste your disdain on someone so undeserving, especially in a forum where that particular trope is done to death.
did no one else think she looked sort of tired?
did no one else think she looked sort of tired?
No one should listen to Gabe because I heard he listens to Gnarls Barkley.
In my opinion, DCist should spend some time reviewing a wider variety of local bands rather than posting a review everytime Georgie James has a show. Let them evolve a bit and we'll see what happens. There are plenty of good local acts that never get mentioned on this site.
Paul, I encourage you to delve through our "Three Stars" feature, which covers a wide and widening variety of local musicmakers that has already significantly dwarfed the two concert reviews we've done of Georgie James. And, as always, if some band is brewing up something in a backyard near you, it always pays to tip your editor.
There are wrong reasons to dislike a band's music? Why thank you for informing us! All this time I have been wrong, but Fry made me see the light! How could I have lived so long as such a bad person?
It always amazes me how people who use the biggest words tend to say the least.
Oh, I kid, I kid--still your post makes it sound like if someone doesn't like Georgie James, they don't know how to appreciate music, which is an arrogant and idiotic statement. Reminds me of something I once heard my 10-year-old cousin say about the Spice Girls. While I'm sure you're joking, liking Georgie James is a silly thing to be elitist about. It would be like considering yourself better than others because you have an original Optimus Prime toy.
It only SOUNDS that way, though--I know you're trying to eat your cake and have it too. I'll just have you know iconoclasm, elitism, and amusical concerns have nothing to do with me finding Georgie James' rhythms dull, their melodies underwhelming, and their lyrics I could catch trite.
Now I'm going to jump into my VW Golf, blast some Slint, and drive with my knees. Why no hands? BECAUSE MY ARMS ARE PERMANENTLY FOLDED ACROSS MY CHEST.
Oh yeah, Paul? Well how about we settle this man to man? I'll meet you at 24139 Gum Springs Rd, Sterling, VA this very Thursday at 7 or 8 at night. We'll each bring a musical instrument as a weapon and we'll hash this out properly. Three touring ska/punk bands will officiate. Loser walks home, listening to a mixtape of the winner's choice.
Also, "Local band plays handful of shows, gets picked up on national tour by cool Scots, makes name for self" is a pretty good story, the kind of thing that more folks would complain about if it WEREN'T covered, I would think. If they can make a big fuss about Army of Mediocrity, I think DCist can certainly spare the column inches for a band that ISN'T professionally packaged background noise. The answer to the "wider coverage" problem is the same as it ever was: "Don't See It? Write It Yourself."
Paul, I encourage you to delve through our "Three Stars" feature, which covers a wide and ever-widening variety of local musicmakers that has already significantly dwarfed the two concert reviews we've done of Georgie James. And, as always, if some band is brewing up something in a backyard near you, it always pays to tip your editor.
What he said.
Paul, I encourage you to delve through our "Three Stars" feature, which covers a wide and ever-widening variety of local musicmakers that has already significantly dwarfed the two concert reviews we've done of Georgie James. And, as always, if some band is brewing up something in a backyard near you, it always pays to tip your editor.
And how come no one has commented about anything the Post said about the show?
They give quite the opposite reaction to Camera Obscura. Was the lead singer's voice really that low in volume?
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/07/10/AR2006071001106.html
Paul, I encourage you to delve through our "Three Stars" feature, which covers a wide and widening variety of local musicmakers that has already significantly dwarfed the two concert reviews we've done of Georgie James. And, as always, if some band is brewing up something in a backyard near you, it always pays to tip your editor.
Okay. I officially suck at this new commenting engine. Apologies to everyone for ganking the thread the three extra times.
DCist has featured Georgie James three times this year. You can argue if you want whether that's too many, or too little, but I thought that it would a good idea to see how often it's happened - in reality - rather than just saying DCist posts a review "every time" the band plays a show.
Though I have to admit, I expected a much higher number. I think people are getting the idea that Georgie James is so hyped by DCist (and I did) because of the constant show announcements, brought on in part by Unbuckled. By now, people that know them and like them will find out when they're playing. So maybe cut back on the show announcements and find readers (those too lazy to look for themselves) some alternatives? I don't know.
I personally think Georgie James, while not necessarily blowing ass, is a pretty lame band that doesn't bring anything interesting, exciting or groundbreaking to the table. But that's my opinion based on my own taste buds. But to be honest, I'd much rather skip over a Georgie James article (you know, you can do that) than even see one about lame-ass locals Army of Me.
Is there a quick link to the three stars feature? It's probably right in front of my face, but whatever.
I must admit, I haven't been a part of the DCist community for that long, but Georgie James does seem to get a hell of a lot of press here.... but you know what, good for them. Maybe they'll help channel more attention to the local DC music scene.
Oh, and Gabe you're on. I'll bring my spoons.
Don't fret Jason, the growing pains from our server switch continue to baffle us all.
Regarding coverage of Georgie James, it's always exciting to see local bands do well. We do tend to feature acts that we're fond of, and GJ falls into that category. But we also make a very concerted effort to make well rounded suggestions.
As always, if there are acts you feel need some more attention, let us know. We love a good tip.
does DCist like everything?
In all seriousness, how many poor reviews have ever been given out by the DCist when it comes to local music? Maybe I just don't read this enough, but my perception of the music reviews here are that there are many contributors who work on their own perogative, not on assignment. Then they submit reviews when they feel like it. This seems like a recipe for blanket DCist approval, because people write when they have a positive reaction to something and want to talk about it, and then DCist prints it because its good to have more content.
But in reality, is there really any objective criticism or critique happening here? Does DCist really have a voice, or is it just contributors who happen to write when they have a strong reaction to something? Is a review really a review, or is it a blank check for contributor music endorsements?
does DCist like everything?
This article, for example, seems to be written by somebody I've never read anything by on DCist - why is his voice valuable? Why should I read his review or trust what he thinks?
In all seriousness, how many poor reviews have ever been given out by the DCist when it comes to local music? Maybe I just don't read enough on DCist, but my perception of the music reviews here are that there are many contributors who work on their own perogative, not on assignment. Then they submit reviews when they feel like it. This seems like a recipe for blanket DCist approval, because people write when they have a positive reaction to something and want to talk about it, and then DCist prints it because its good to have more content.
But in reality, is there really any objective criticism or critique happening here? Does DCist really have a voice, or is it just contributors who happen to write when they have a strong reaction to something?
Every single review I've ever written here has been entirely objective.
Oh! Except for the Stapp. That was written to give all of you something funny to read.
To answer your question, we have a volunteer staff of writers and editors. The writers do, in fact, select shows to review ahead of time, but naturally tend to cover things they're already interested in. We've certainly published plenty of unflattering reviews, and as Jason said, are as objective as we can be.
This isn't anyone's full time job, but we do have a dedicated staff that contributes as their time allows them to. We grow that staff when we find contributors with potential, as Ian demonstrated today.
I hope that cleared some things up for you. As always, if you're ever interested in contributing to DCist, let us know.
I considered DCist to be the positive review yin to Heresahint.org's "don't quit your day job" yang, but my universe has been thrown into confusion and imbalance because of some scandinavian hacker.
Yes, Tracyanne's voice is rather thin, but that's part of its charm, as far as I'm concerned. As for the sound, yes, the feedback squealed slightly a couple of times. But I've heard far worse, and it certainly wasn't anything that detracted a great deal.
From where I stood, I could hear her vocals quite well, and had no trouble understanding any of her between-song banter. I don't know where the Post's reviewer was camped out. Maybe in the Red Room.
Here's one off the top of my head. I'm sure there are others:
http://www.dcist.com/archives/2005/10/19/clap_your_hands.php
I've been going to shows in DC since 1990 and regularly see dozens of bands a year. I had never seen nor listened to Q and Not U or Georgie James when I caught them at the Black Cat on Sunday. I found them to be unimaginative, uninspired, and generally forgettable. I like happy music as much as the next person; my problem with the band was not the direction of its sound or its attitude. The music was just boring.
Just to clarify, Tracyanne didn't ask who had the first album. She just stated that you should look out for the person on the cover cause she was in the audience, and then she said, "judging by the reaction, i guess not many people have the album." Which might be true but the the truth is probably people just don't care about seeing the person who's on the album cover.
She did ask who had a Dolly Preven album, but quite honestly, no one knew what the hell she said because of the thickness of her accent. I was right up front and barely understood what she said.
And though she might have been tired, that seems to be her performance style (she was the same way last year). She just looks really really really serious.
Both bands were great though, i had a great time.
Here's the deal: Georgie James has serious connections. I don't care what anyone thinks about their sound, no band can get a slot opening for Camera Obscura after playing only a handful of shows. They didn't get this gig because they are good. Their first DC show was mainstage at the Black Cat. Anyone who has a band in this area will tell you that mainstage Black Cat is one of the hardest gigs to book. GJ has connections, money, a Q and Not U following, and the completely hot (though lacking in sex appeal) Laura Burhenn.
i'm pretty sure it was backstage at black cat, and as an opener ... that said, i'd tend to agree that they get noticed because they're connected and -- on a local blog level -- because people think laura is hot and uber-cool ... and what's wrong with that?
uh, LTB-- their first dc show was backstage at the black cat. and, it was supremely packed. so, perhaps it's their drawing power that's getting georgie james good shows/tours, not their "serious connections." you should tell your friends in bands to start drawing 300 people. i bet that the people who book clubs and the people who book big(ger) bands would take notice sooner or later.
indeed, it was backstage. they played mainstage not even a month later. that progression seems natural and justified. their first show was at the ottobar.
all i'm saying is that their success is undeserved--due to who they are and the amount of money they have.
LouderthanBombs said:
all i'm saying is that their success is undeserved--due to who they are and the amount of money they have.
>>
What makes you think they have money? Trust me - even a moderately successful indie rock band makes less than your average receptionist.
Yes - Georgie James have connections. John Davis was in a successful, critically acclaimed band on Dischord and knows or is friendly with the booking agents at the Black Cat. He has been playing music in the area for about 15 years or so, and has probably met a lot of the 'gatekeepers' over that time period. Thus, when it comes down to making a decision about some band from Fairfax or Georgie James, Georgie James gets the nod.
OH please it is because of their connections. The fact that his last band was on dischord. The fact that John had his tongue up Ian's ass for years to get that deal in the first place. That is how the "biz" works , and you are ignorant if you think it's the quality of music that determines a band's opportunities.
DCist Kyle said:
"Here's one off the top of my head. I'm sure there are others:
http://www.dcist.com/archives/2005/10/19/clap_your_hands.php"
___
Yes, I recall this review, but my original question asked about local reviews.
"The fact that John had his tongue up Ian's ass for years to get that deal in the first place. That is how the "biz" works , and you are ignorant if you think it's the quality of music that determines a band's opportunities."
Let's say that's true. Then tell me this: why would any band not ENSURE their success by taking the simple step of tonguing Ian Mackaye's anus? I mean, if that was the only obstacle to what I wanted most out of life, where's the shame in surmounting it? It sure sounds easier that spending a few months practicing.
"GJ has connections, money, a Q and Not U following, and the completely hot (though lacking in sex appeal) Laura Burhenn."
Louder than Bombs, I can say with conviction that Georgie James does not have all of this money that you speak of, they are just starting out, have only played about 10 shows at this point and don't even have an album out. I'm not sure what connections you think they have, either, but I believe most of the connections that they've got are from John and Laura both being in the DC music scene for the last 10 years. As for the Q and Not U following, I believe John has been extra careful not to chase after that Q and Not U fanbase and to try and develop new fans beyond his old one. It is inevitable that people will compare and contrast Georgie James and Q and Not U, or Georgie James and Laura Burhenn. I'm pretty sure they won't ever be able to please everyone, but I do know that if people weren't into their music, they wouldn't come out to see them play. Period. And finally, how are you going to try and tell me that Laura is 'completely hot' yet 'lacking in sex appeal'? If you want her out there dancing around like Britney Spears in a bra and panties, you probably aren't going to get that. Sorry to disappoint you.
"GJ has connections, money, a Q and Not U following, and the completely hot (though lacking in sex appeal) Laura Burhenn."
Louder than Bombs, I can say with conviction that Georgie James does not have all of this money that you speak of, they are just starting out, have only played about 10 shows at this point and don't even have an album out. I'm not sure what connections you think they have, either, but I believe most of the connections that they've got are from John and Laura both being in the DC music scene for the last 10 years. As for the Q and Not U following, I believe John has been extra careful not to chase after that Q and Not U fanbase and to try and develop new fans beyond his old one. It is inevitable that people will compare and contrast Georgie James and Q and Not U, or Georgie James and Laura Burhenn. I'm pretty sure they won't ever be able to please everyone, but I do know that if people weren't into their music, they wouldn't come out to see them play. Period. And finally, how are you going to try and tell me that Laura is 'completely hot' yet 'lacking in sex appeal'? If you want her out there dancing around like Britney Spears in a bra and panties, you probably aren't going to get that. Sorry to disappoint you.
"GJ has connections, money, a Q and Not U following, and the completely hot (though lacking in sex appeal) Laura Burhenn."
Louder than Bombs, I can say with conviction that Georgie James does not have all of this money that you speak of, they are just starting out, have only played about 10 shows at this point and don't even have an album out. I'm not sure what connections you think they have, either, but I believe most of the connections that they've got are from John and Laura both being in the DC music scene for the last 10 years. As for the Q and Not U following, I believe John has been extra careful not to chase after that Q and Not U fanbase and to try and develop new fans beyond his old one. It is inevitable that people will compare and contrast Georgie James and Q and Not U, or Georgie James and Laura Burhenn. I'm pretty sure they won't ever be able to please everyone, but I do know that if people weren't into their music, they wouldn't come out to see them play. Period. And finally, how are you going to try and tell me that Laura is 'completely hot' yet 'lacking in sex appeal'? If you want her out there dancing around like Britney Spears in a bra and panties, you probably aren't going to get that. Sorry to disappoint you.
Sorry about that.
Almost everyone of your music reviews is simply glorified fluffing of said band/performer. Rarely is there anything critical mentioned about the show, venue, sound etc. Journalism is general survives on the ethics of fairness, accuracy, balance etc. as it relates to both its readers or subjects. Regardless, of whether you do it part time or full time, these principles can't be compromised. I suggest the entire music staff start adhering to these and stop treating it as if it is an outlet for social engagements, name dropping and free tickets.
Once again, I'll submit my own reviews as unequivocal proof against your contention, "To the Editors."
To The Editors, you are just plain wrong. For all of this railing against DCist for doing fluff pieces on Georgie James, the first review of their show (opening for the Joggers) was critical of the sound AND had Georgie James getting a bit repetetive.
http://www.dcist.com/archives/2006/03/24/rebel_soundsyst.php
Three questions:
1)Is there a quick link to the "Three Stars" feature, or do i have to go through the archives to find em?
2)Could someone please tell me how many local shows Georgie James has played to date (not including this tour), and how many of them were reviewed by DCist.
3)Am I wrong in expecting that zero of the three Rancid shows that will be held at the blackcat in August will get a review?
it's basically an unwinnable subject. if DCist is critical of a local band, they're accused of never supporting the local music scene. if the reviews tend to be positive, they're told they're compromising the journalistic principles of fairness and accuracy. personally, i prefer to read positive reviews because a) i don't doubt the DCist writer actually genuinely likes them and it makes a good recommendation and b) i think it's a good thing for a local site to support local bands. can you imagine the comments a post that ripped a local band to shreds would get? it would be mayhem. and what's the point of tearing down a really terrible local band when you can write reviews about ones you actually like and think are doing good things?
if you type Three Stars in the search bar at the top left of your screen, you'll get all the Three Stars posts.
Poor rancid! How will they make it now?!
1. There is a box on the left side of the site at the top. It is marked "Search." Type "Three Stars" in the box. Press "Go."
2. Before the Camera Obscura tour, I believe Georgie James played out in DC four times. We reviewed the show at the Black Cat backstage with the Joggers. We reviewed their most recent appearance with Camera Obscura. They were good enough to play at the most recent Unbuckled, with Deleted Scenes. There is never a need to review the Unbuckled shows because they are, on their face, patently awesome.
3. You would, indeed, be entirely wrong in your expectation that zero of the three Rancid shows will get attention from DCist. It's going to be a highlight of the summer, wouldn't you say? We have every hope of getting one of the staff writers out to see Rancid--it will depend on their availability. If it were up to us, we'd be there all three nights and have an interview with the band, to boot. Of course, DCist readers from Day One have been invited and encouraged to contribute in kind.
Paul,
There has never been a three stars for Georgie James. Georgie James has played 1) a backstage show at the Black Cat with the Joggers. 2) A mainstage show at the Black Cat with Exit Clov and the Soft Complex. 3) A DCist Unbuckled show. and 4) the show the other night with Camera Obscura. First of all, playing a DCist Unbuckled show is obviously going to get heavy rotation/promotion from bloggers, especially DCist because, well, it's a DCist show! Second, I think that the buzz surrounding any post-Q and Not U band or any other band that is arguably one of the most well-known bands to come out of this area is completely merited, especially when it is their first few shows. In addition, reviewing the Camera Obscura show makes some sense, considering they are one of the hottest bands out there right now and have had the number one song on college radio according to CMJ in the last few weeks. Even Pitchfork made mention of Georgie James last week...
http://www.pitchforkmedia.com/page/news/37248/Georgie_James_exQ_and_Not_U_Tour_With_Camera_Ob
Am I wrong in expecting that zero of the three Rancid shows that will be held at the blackcat in August will get a review?
"Why does DCist refuse to cover the Warped Tour? Why does DCist refuse to cover my house show? Why won't DCist recognize that punx not dead?
Am I wrong in expecting that zero of the three Rancid shows that will be held at the blackcat in August will get a review?
Why does DCist refuse to cover the Warped Tour? Why does DCist refuse to cover my house show? Why does DCist refuse to recognize that punx not dead?
So DCist has given Georgie James three concert reviews when the band has been together a matter of months. Nice.
How come you're not reviewing any more shows at the Grog? Everyone knows that's where the classy acts play, especially on Monday nights. It's so Metro accesible as well.
Georgie James was amazing.
we need more bands like this.
Thanks for the info.
Since I got called out for not thoroughly researching my initial claim, I figured i'd throw the Georgie James shows vs Reviews on the table. I personally have no problem with Georgie James. My initial thought was simply, why not review a band that's never been reviewed here rather than continually follow the same band?
I look forward to the Rancid review. Whether you like them or not, there's something impressive about being able to play back-to-back-to-back shows at the cat, all of which will most likely sell out.
If DCist wants to get more in touch with the local punk scene they should review some of the Saturday night U-turn shows, and/or venture out to Silver Spring and visit the Blondeshells house. Once again, maybe you guys already did this, but i've only been hip to the DCist scene for a short time now...
How about a three stars with Benjy Ferree. He's terrific.
Look at the Six Points Music Festival reviews if you want to read about us trashing local bands. Personally, I wasn't kind to Lucky Day and one of the other bands. SEE? I already forgot their name!
I don't pretend to have the well developed musical sensibilities of the many posters (posers?) here, but were you people actually at the show? Georgie James played a quality set. They were fun and John and Laura's harmonies sounded great.
I genuinely like Camera Obscura, but their live show wasn't very good. People were walking out because it was so boring. I really tried to stick it out, but after drinking a few beers I literally almost fell asleep in the middle of the set. There was a glimmer of hope when they played "Lloyd", but I'll be damned if they didn't bring it right back down. I'm getting sleepy just thinking about it.
I was totally determined to read all the comments on Georgie James because really, in a battle of arms, my allegience is with pop music, but I couldn't make it through. You guys have stamina I could never muster. It did, however, make me realize in a way I never had before how absolutely F-ing ridiculous pseudo-hipster music-lovers are. I pledge my alleigence to t-rex and I'll never listen to anything more.
anybody with a soul should listen to t-rex/marc bolan. that said, i don't get the "pseudo-hipster music lovers" thing. this whole thing is really an example of dorks dorking out about their opinions. i thought that was the point of blogs. like it or lump it.
If DCist wants to get more in touch with the local punk scene they should review some of the Saturday night U-turn shows, and/or venture out to Silver Spring and visit the Blondeshells house. Once again, maybe you guys already did this, but i've only been hip to the DCist scene for a short time now...
Well, we'd love to get more in touch with the punk scene -- but our lack of coverage is a product of who's willing to write about it. It's actually pretty tough to find people who a) can write decently, b) are reliable and c) have sufficiently decent taste in music that you lot won't crucify them.
There's no question that the musical tastes of our original contributors has shaped DCist's music coverage. The coverage draws readers, who turn into contributors, and the cycle repeats. For that reason we tend toward poppy indie rock and the occasional respectful discursion into humorless Dischordiana.
As a result, our coverage of hip hop has remained weak (partly owing to the city's fairly limited scene), our punk reviews are largely nonexistent, and we've never been able to find anybody to cover go go. It's a shame, and something we'd love to remedy.
So, to be completely shameless -- there are clearly a bunch of folks here who can string a sentence together, care about music and would like to influence the direction of DCist's coverage. If you think you might want to write something for us, please, drop one of us a line.
I know Laura Burhenn personally and happen to also know that she has a very healthy appetite. Was just annoyed by the comment on her weight as she happens to be one of those people who CAN pack it in and not pack it on. I know that may annoy some people, but it's the truth. And she is a beautiful person inside and out.
Regardless of the passionate assault on Georgie James music here, these are real people who can be hurt by personal attacks which have NOTHING to do with their sound.
I think if you don't like the music it is best to just say it and leave it at that. Anything more just seems egotisical, even if that is not the intention.
And it is important to come to the defense of loved ones...a touch of advice I've learned from a wild amount of varied life experience.
Peace and love to all.
i do love georgie james and i do wonder what it is about them that gets people so up in arms?
is it because they received a decent amount of attention from the get go (assuredly due to their connections)? i don't live in dc anymore, so maybe i'm missing something about the current zeitgeist - but seriously. one thing i always loved about dc was how supportive people were of the local music scene. if someone didn't like a particular band, they would just say 'it's not my thing.' what's up with all the vitriol these days?
Georgie James is talented.