The Places / Krakatoa / The Swords Project
The Knitting Factory, NYC
April 2nd, 2002

Inhabiting the dungeon-like Old Office of the Knit, the triple bill of the Places, Krakatoa, and the Swords Project:

The Places were a trio of electric/acoustic bass, drums and guitar - fronted by singer/songwriter Amy Annelle. Her sultry vocals and subtle guitar playing led a set of mellow, introspective pop songs that seemed to freeze time. Enchanting and mesmerizing, the songs enveloped everything around with a haze of serenity. Nearing the end of the set, Annelle announced that they were going to play a cover, and said they had planned some Magma, but decided on something more "American", which, needless to say, intrigued me. My curiosity was satisfied later when I asked her what Magma she meant, and it was indeed the Kobian variety. Despite missing out on the unique opportunity to hear a shoe gazer version of MDK, the set was very enjoyable.

Krakatoa provided a change of pace with their intense and joyous chamber rock. After some initial sound problems, the band ripped through a set of almost completely new material, as well as "Eggshells" and "Bubbles and Gurgles" from the just released Togetherness. Proficient all around, they easily sped through complex interlocking parts and frantic changes, anchored perfectly by monster drummer Ely Levin. No cello player this time, but the spirited and rocking performance more than made up for it.

I still can't believe that the Swords Project were actually able to play. A seven piece, including two drummers, a Fender Rhodes, Synth, two guitarists, a violinist and bassist squeezed onto the slightly raised stage. Unfortunately, the sound suffered as a result, with many problems including the violin cutting in and out. The small space was most likely to blame, with such a large amount of instruments. But they sure as hell put on a good show despite the sound difficulties, with intense post-rock goodness. Taking a cue from the more apocalyptic moments of Godspeed you Black Emperor! and Mogwai, building into killer crescendos, underpinned by sparkling fender melodies and even some clarinet and melodica. Violin and bass anchor the sound, with the two drummers filling each other in nicely when playing simultaneously (one doubled on electronics and synth). A promising group that could have killed under better conditions and tighter playing.        

- Mike Prete [April 2002]