The next band, Hot Molasses, was one that I had never heard of before. All I’m going to say is that they played a song about Pablo Picasso, and also threw a random country song into their mostly 80’s sounding set. Wat.
The main deal for me was Run Gazelle Run. The band’s energy was palpable as they took the stage, arranging odd pieces of clothing around their set before tuning their instruments. Their enthusiasm only increased with songs like “Kablam!”
As a mandolin is the most defining feature of their sound, the band was akin to a very talented King Richards Faire jam band. But don’t consider that a bad thing. The change of pace from the average indie/hipster band I’ve been seeing copies of everywhere was incredibly welcome. Run Gazelle Run creates danceable tunes with an air of ridiculousness, and they really look like they’re enjoying themselves. Throughout their set each band member ended up having at least one costume change. They donned some pretty silly thrift store finds: a furry vest and a fedora, a Wild West-themed white blazer, overalls and a mesh shirt circa 1995.
Besides the costume changes, the most memorable moment was their bongo interlude. The fact that I got to say “bongo interlude” at all makes me especially happy. They wrapped up their set after playing my personal favorite of the night, “Madman,” and “G#,” but were demanded by the audience to return to the stage for one final song. And rightly so—any band that energetic and fun should close out the night with a bangin’ encore. An entertaining group to be sure, Run Gazelle Run is one to keep on your radar.
-Cheryl Rafuse
Photo Credit: Christine Varriale
