War on Women

As good as the supports were (I saw Hate Fuck and Petrol Girls), War On Women took things onto a whole new level.

I'd not seen them before and they didn't disappoint. When you go to watch a superior punk band there's a moment in every show when the band is about to start. It's like trundling slowly to the top of a rollercoaster, and waiting... waiting... waiting... and then GO! That was what War On Women were like - their soaring, incendiary chords were like that rollercoaster feeling.

They were hard, fast but also extremely entertaining both in their lyrics and the band's inter-song chat.

Cracking stuff.

Ted Leo has had a strong presence in the punk scene sine the ‘90s and still continues to perform powerful shows that amaze audiences wherever he plays. He has played in many well regarded bands such as Ted Leo and the Pharmacists, Citizens Arrest, and Chisel, but also has a reputation for his highly captivating solo performances. Ted Leo’s solo performances consist of just him and his guitar, but he is still able to pull off a highly energetic punk show.

I had the privilege of seeing Ted Leo open up for Aimee Mann in 2013 and was amazed of the control he had over the audience. Ted Leo performed with all of the raw energy that is expected be heard in punk, but his delivery was very clear and pristine. Punk music often has the tendency to be somewhat sloppy and all over the place, but Ted Leo’s musical performance was very consolidated and attention grabbing. He strummed his guitar in a highly rhythmic manner, which made up for the lack of drums and bass. He often added distortion to his guitar playing to convey the loud, gritty punk sound that is found throughout his music. Although his music is highly punk based, he would occasionally play on his acoustic guitar presenting a deep, vibrant sound to his music that was still energetic, but more beautiful than his heavier tunes. Ted Leo also has an amazing vocal range that he presents in a very clear fashion. He is not just some punk singer yelling out an uncontrolled, angst driven slew of words in a raspy voice, but is a highly proficient vocalist with an excellent voice. He is able to sing a melody in perfect tune, and can hit some incredibly high notes when singing falsetto.

When I saw Ted Leo live, he joined Aimee Mann during her set to perform some of the songs that they had written for their band, The Both. Aimee Mann and Ted Leo had perfect chemistry together and were able to harmonize their vocals to create some of the most catchy songs. Ted Leo also has a great sense of humor and is always quick with a joke or a funny story when he is on stage. Ted Leo is still writing innovative music and cranking out interesting music in all styles that are both beautiful and energetic. If Ted Leo ever comes through town, you should definitely let this legendary punk musician amaze you with his vast skills.