The Pity Party [aka the best band in L.A.] @ the Echo 11/20/06

Having been called a cross between Blonde Redhead and Devo (only darker), experimental-rock duo The Pity Party has been said to achieve a bigger sound than most four-piece acts could hope for.

Needless to say, this piqued my interest, and I caught their free show at The Echo on Nov. 20 in support of Great Northern's residency.

I quickly reached the conclusion that The Pity Party are the best band in L.A. right now, period. If I hadn't seen it, I wouldn't believe that just two people could achieve that level of loudness. With her drumkit set up front and center, the lovely "Heisenflei" pulls triple duty playing drums and keys while managing the lead vocals. As if this weren't entertaining enough to watch, "Maurice-Robert" churns out raw guitar riffs with a plethora of pedals beneath his busy feet while providing backing harmonies. The pair delivers an experimental and refreshingly unique sound, evocatively blending the artsy rawness of Nico-era Velvet Underground with the loud intensity of Trail of Dead's live shows, featuring smart and inspired lyrics to boot. This is definitely a band to experience live, and you can come January at the Silverlake Lounge, where the band will have a Monday night residency.

Go check them out on their myspace. Now. You will thank me.