Charlene, Josephine Foster and the Supposed, Micah Blue Smaldone June 4, 2006

the critique of pure reason presents:



sunday, june 4

pa's lounge

doors at 8:30, $8 (21+), $11 (18-20)



set times:

charlene (11:30ish)

josephine (10:30ish)

micah (9:30ish)



Josephine Foster

[more info and links to mp3s]

The new first lady of folk: Josephine Foster has still seen off all comers to become America's most adventurous songwriter. Foster's recent solo set was a bewitching blend of American gothic, psychedelic ragtime, nursery rhymes, folk and mountain music. The fact that at one point in today's afternoon set her truly incredible theremin-sounding voice is overlaid with an impromptu rendition of Greensleeves from a passing ice cream van only adds to the effect. --Michael Lane, NME



Charlene

[also myspace for mp3s]

In the independent rock world, bands come and go with the frequency of Dubya's dumb quotables. It's always refreshing to meet a band who has been slowly building up momentum over the years at their own pace - mostly because it's apparent in the end result. Charlene formed in 1996, and have put out a handful of EPs, played on compilations and various shows, and established their own label and studio space (Dented Head Studios) in Newton, MA. And they're all familiar with the rock and roll biz. Guitarist/keyboardist Matt Mirande is co-founder of Chicago's ace Sugarfree records. Bassist/singer John Rex's twin brothers are part of Boston "space-rockers" Lockgroove. Charlene is meticulous about their presentation, whether it be their record packaging or the way a chord resonates in a song. They want to do it right...and it shows. (Sponic.com)



Micah Blue Smaldone

Micah Smaldone should, by the sound of it, be dead. Seemingly held over from the era of vaudeville and ragtime, Some Sweet Day does what most albums can't: it touches on the strength of a small, nasal voice and finely picked guitar. When he yodels his Dustbowl-beggar blues about outlaws, in-laws, and old-fashioned hurtin', you can't help but wonder where all the good music has gone. (Magnet)