By DCist contributor Tori Kerr
Among the stars in Washington, D.C.’s musical galaxy, few shine brighter than Mary Timony. Timony (Autoclave, Helium, Wild Flag) has been delivering gritty, earnest, and infectious music since the early ’90s, but with Ex Hex—her latest endeavor with drummer Laura Harris and bassist Betsy Wright—brings a new chapter for the Glover Park native. On Wednesday night the trio played a sold-out show at the Black Cat’s back stage, debuting material from their just-released released 7-inch, as well as their forthcoming full-length. It was a short-but-sweet performance leaving fans with plenty to chew on between now and the album’s release.
Foul Swoops opened the night, bringing their particularly grungy brand blistering garage-rock and don’t-give-a-fuck ethos. That much was especially evident when vocalist/bassist Devin Connell spit beer into the audience during the last song. (Those in the splash zone feigned disgust, but cheerfully wiped their faces as the band’s talent was undeniable and all was forgiven.)
New York’s Teen followed, carefully blending elements of shoegaze and guitar-heavy synth-pop with formidable lyrics and lovely harmonies. The set started out poppy, but after three or four songs Teen had decisively moved into a more groovy territory. Frontwoman Teeny Lieberson has the voice of a pop star but is as poised and composed as an indie (which makes sense, considering that she was also in Here We Go Magic).
The greatest thing about following an artist like Mary Timony is that you never know where her sound might go next. She’s tightened the edges and lightened the mood over the past 20 years, as most maturing artists are wont to do, but she can emulate blues, punk, or ’50s rock at the swish of a wrist. The band tore out of the gates with “Don’t Wanna Lose,” with Timony doling out the tasty licks she’s known for. Sometimes dirty, occasionally sweet, but always satisfying, her trademark shredding was certainly the highlight of every song, especially as Timony and Wright channeled the guitar gods of yesteryear with a number of classic rock moves and power stances.
“Waterfall,” a sweet pop song, was a favorite, as well as “Warpaint,” in which Wright took over vocal duties. The only snafu Ex Hex experienced could actually be considered a shining moment for the group. During “Hot and Cold,” Harris dropped one drumstick only to lose the other once she retrieved the original. Yet, the three smiled as Harris played it off before unleashing a thrilling drum fill to make up for it. Here’s to many more happy accidents.
