Honeyblood Played Great Scott, Plays House of Blues Tonight

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERABefore opening for fellow Glaswegians Belle and Sebastian at House of Blues Monday night, Honeyblood played a much smaller show at Great Scott on Sunday. Honeyblood’s self-titled debut is one of the most overlooked albums of 2014 – and the pre-support tour tune-up was a wonderful show.

The duo, comprising Stina Tweedale on guitar and Shona McViar on drums, play a brand of pop rock that’s a bit harder than the dreamy, lo-fi sound of Alvvays and reminiscent of Rilo Kiley era Jenny Lewis. Tweedale’s vocals shined a bit brighter and a bit rawer in a club setting, but in a good way. McViar’s forceful drumming compliments the distortion-heavy guitar very well.

There’s an undeniable energy from the band, especially on set opener “Fall Forever,” with intense guitars and serene vocalization. And later on in the set, McViar introduced the concept of “Boogie Sunday” while introducing a song, which also happened to conveniently fall on Palm Sunday. But the smaller crowd took to the invented holiday’s true meaning and got moving.

At points, it’s hard to believe, on record or live, that the duo is able to produce such a rocking and varied sound. By the time set closer and great single “Killer Bangs” came around, with a brief, intense instrumental bridge, Honeyblood probably won over a few new devoted fans. And it won’t be long before they play the area again.

Honeyblood plays tonight, March 30, at the House of Blues, opening for Belle and Sebastian (tickets still available). Early birds will be rewarded with their infectious sound.