I don’t think I’ve been to a band’s debut show since I played my own band’s first show in high school. It was a disaster. I think as a result, click I passively developed an aversion to them, doctor expecting the same kind of carnage. I was curious then to go see Doom Lover’s debut at Radio on the 19th. As is natural in a community with a constantly evolving music scene, musicians hop bands like hoes hop beds. Doom Lover is no exception. The five-piece was made up of drummer John Lee, formerly of metal heads We Met Aliens, Geoff Smith and Kyle Allain, 2/3 of the defunct mellow-rock group De Osos, former frontman of Big East, Jeff Vachon, and the synth/keyboard queen Nikki Dessingue of Stereo Telescope. Résumés considered, this group clearly has potential.
It can seem promising to have so many seasoned musicians in the same band, but it can also be a tinderbox of competing influences and strong opinions. However, according to the band they’ve got the creative and rehearsal processes down pat. “Band is easy,” is their motto, and since they all claim to hate their day jobs, they’re motivated to live up to that. Their set was a fluid progression of rock-centric songs tacitly hinting at blues. Guitarists Geoff and Jeff (confusing, I know) swapped lead vocals, both evoking a ballad-like level of emotion through lyrics seemingly about nothing in particular. Meanwhile, Dessingue arranged some powerful vocal harmonies that give their music excellent depth, particularly with a female voice in the mix. It is worth noting that she had broken her foot, and coupled with obligations for Stereo Telescope, she was unable to play more than a tambourine. When she finally gets her keys, Doom Lover will fill out an already formidable sound.
Illuminated by red light and an overhead projector displaying liquids in a petri dish, the band practiced tremendous discipline and pace throughout. Lee and Allen hardly missed a beat, and seemed extremely well rehearsed for a debut show. They supported the guitar work of Jeff and Geoff, two talented musicians that could melt the face off the audience, if only they wanted to. Instead, solos were reserved and soulful. Well composed interludes and bridge sections held the most gusto. Many of the songs built to a climax before abruptly ending, keeping the audience on its toes. At times, Jeff dropped his guitar to play his harmonica, or beat the hell out of a large bass drum at the front of the stage. While the songs possessed elements that made each distinguishable from the others, the band established an identity. In other words, they have created a brand of music that can be only Doom Lover. Not a small feat for a first show. As they write, record, and play more, they will surely establish themselves as a completely unique act, especially once Dessingue gets her equipment on stage.
In sum, they played a great set that retained the audience’s attention throughout. With an experienced roster, they don’t seem to suffer from the “too many chefs in the kitchen” syndrome. Instead, it looks like they’ve nailed the creative process. With their first show in the books, they’re determined to keep writing and begin recording. Keep an eye out this year for some studio work, as well as collaborations with other area musicians. Catch their next show on February 22nd at Precinct.
Photo Credit: Nate Thompson