Yeasayer - Rescue Rooms, Nottingham, 12/10/2009

  by Sarah Mwangi

published: 20 / 10 / 2009

intro

Yeasayer have been among the few bands that I know I should listen to but… don’t. They emerged in 2007 with their critically praised album ‘All Hour Cymbals’, full of experimental sounds and eccentri

Yeasayer have been among the few bands that I know I should listen to but… don’t. They emerged in 2007 with their critically praised album ‘All Hour Cymbals’, full of experimental sounds and eccentric influences, complete with a 'Pitchfork' and 'NME' sticker of approval. With all that hype and scene kids, I stayed away. This, as it turns out, was to my detriment. Yeasayer were and still are worth the hype and they proved this as Bat for Lashes support band in Nottingham’s Rock City. But Yeasayer as a support band? I guess it serves as exposure to another audience. And I guess Natasha Khan is showing her appreciation to the band who contributed to her Mercury Prize nominated album, ‘Two Suns’. But Yeasayer are far above support band duties. From beginning to end, their mix of genres which are borrowed from around the world, held the intrigued gazes of the audience for the duration of their set. Folk, Eastern and Arabic tinges and tribal prayer-like chants were intertwined within the enthralling rhythms. Vocals were shared between Chris Keating and Anand Wilder, as they sang from their debut album of two years ago and their upcoming release. Keating’s vocals proved to follow in the vein of a number of indie/experimental outfits with the idiosyncratic charm of impassioned yelps and bursts. And for those not familiar with Yeasayer, Wilder’s vocals took a while to settle in. His Eastern accent and slight slur, however, added enchanting layers and exotic tones to the ever-changing sounds of Yeasayer’s act. Theatrics and David Bryne antics were a no-show as a subdued Keating took the stage that night, which shifted focus onto Ira Wolf Tuton. And in a fitted white vest and tight jeans, Tuton didn’t disappoint. He cut a cool figure under the coloured lights, playing basslines so deep that hearts followed in rhythm. All combined it was a memorable performance. The kind that has the main act playing catch-up; and as the headlining band was Bat for Lashes, that was no mean feat. Needless to say, I came out a convert that Monday night. I came out giddy and excited to explore all things Yeasayer. I guess I’ll think twice next time 'NME' tastemakes another band

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