Live Shows of 2004

Continuing the 2004 lists (this is almost out of my system) here's the best shows of 2004:

5. Shipping News @ The Earl- I've seen these guys over 5 times and they always bring the intensity to the live show. The new songs continue to evolve into more great music from these guys (where's that album you were in town to record guys?) Watching Jason play bass is sheer bliss. True lessons in "less is more".

4. TV On The Radio @ Variety Playhouse- Wow. On album this band comes of like a studio band that couldn't produce the goods live. Fortunately their live show replaces some of the studio trickery with volume and intensity while keeping the amazing vocals found on the record. Go see these guys.

3. Ted Leo @ the 40 Watt- I don't even have to talk about how great his music is to review this live show. I can't think of anyone who brings more honesty and sincerety to the stage than Ted. Everytime I see him I get the feeling that he's genuinely honored to be playing for the audience. Add an abundant amount of energy and you have a live set that won't disappoint.

2.Robyn Hitchcock @ Smith's Olde Bar- Is there anything cooler than a Haloween set from Robyn? Well, he could have played "Errie Green Storm Lantern" but that's not the point. Robyn always delights with his surreal humor and poingant insight.

1.(TIE) Sonic Youth @ Earthlink Live and Morrissey @ The Tabernacle- Two old veterans who proved they are still the masters of their craft. The Mozzer brings the Vegas show to my generation. Old or new, Steven Patrick still delivers his songs with style and panache. He had the crowd wrapped around his little finger. Sonic Youth exude the confidence that no one does it as well as the Youth. Even if Kim seems eternally bored, Thurston, Lee and Steve are creating art every night. Seeing Thurston clammering over amps, hanging from curtains, and finally beating his guitar with two drumsticks will inspire the punk in all of us. Three words: Teenage Riot live...

Special Recognition: Pixies @ The Fox- If anyone deserves a soldout tour 10+ years after they called it quits, it's the Pixies. It was quite a treat to hear the "classics" played live, but I think the stuffy venue and fond memories of their last tour kept me from being totally blown away.