Rock and Roll still blows my mind…

OK, so here’s the deal.

I’m all set to go to the Blogger Show and then see the TM Sisters perform at Artists Space when my friend, Tony, IMs me with an offer of a cheap ticket to see Sufjan Stevens‘ debut of BQE at BAM (Brooklyn Academy of Music). Alas, I opted for Sufjan Stevens because I haven’t ever seen him in concert and the BQE BAM commission is a rare event (and it sold out before I could get tickets).

Here are some photos from the show, along with what I thought was a clunky (jaded?) review. I understand some of the technical criticisms, but disagree with her points regarding expressive markings and her apparent disdain for using pop/rock instruments in the vicinity of those played whilst wearing tuxedos. As far as the “rock opera” analogy…um …yeah …no (ugh, did someone step in dog poo?). BQE was probably the best example of orchestral and pop instrumentation working seamlessly in a unique piece I’ve heard – which is to say it wasn’t Tommy and it wasn’t this.

This will also give you some idea of what it’s like.

As far as the film side of the show, my friend Joe (both a film professor and knowledgeable on classical music) said, “His music was more interesting than his filmwork, which was basically Koyaanisqatsi on three screens (though the triptych idea was pretty effective).” I’ll take that and like it.

After BQE, Sufjan played the hits! The orchestra stayed.

Susan Enan sums it up nicely, “I just got back from seeing what could be the best concert I have been too… ever.” Keep your eye out for her new album.

As for me, I was really blown away by the show in its entirety. I don’t usually get all teenage-fan about concerts, but this struck me as particularly moving. BQE was great, and better than I had expected, but combined with the orchestra-backed performance of his “hits,” it was a fantastic concert experience. John Wayne Gacy might be one of the most beautiful songs about one of the most horrible subjects ever…or maybe it’s just my favorite song about human depravity. Stevens mentioned that he thought he had to put that song away for a while – not for too long, I hope.

…and apparently the NYTimes agreed.

Thanks to Michael for the set list:

Part I:
BQE

Part II:
Seven Swans
Illinois
Oh Detroit, Lift Up Your Weary Head
Jacksonville
John Wayne Gacy
The Predatory Wasp Of The Palisades Is Out To Get Us
Barn Owl, Night Killer
Casimir Pulaski Day
Majesty, Snowbird
Chicago

So if this comes to your town, I highly recommend it.

btw, I’m still a Veg Head.

Friday, November 3, 2007

Breakfast: Raisin Bran, coffee

Lunch: Thai vegetarian sandwich from this place on 6th st near 1st ave…amazing.

Dinner: Burrito casserole!

Saturday, November 3, 2007

Breakfast: toasted bagel w/ cream cheese, banana, oj, coffee – compliments of the Aiuto household.

Lunch: Thai crispy duck @ Thai Cafe – awesome. It actually tasted like duck (it was fake meat).

Dinner: Burrito casserole!

Sunday, November 4, 2007

Breakfast: Bagel w/ maple-raisin cream cheese from Bagelsmith, coffee

Lunch: eggs Florentine at Julliette

Dinner: Burrito casserole!