Genre-bending U.K. buzz band Alt-J hits Empty Bottle Sunday
There’s been a lot of buzz in the U.K. about Alt-J, an indie band that mixes rock, R&B, dubstep, folk and (you name it) other genres on its intriguing debut An Awesome Wave. That chatter around Alt-J has increased since late May when the band’s album was released in Europe. And I suspect there will be quite a bit of talk in the U.S. about these guys once An Awesome Wave is released here September 18. The album is really fresh and original. The buzz is well deserved.
If you act fast, you may be able to snag a ticket for the band’s Empty Bottle performance Sunday (a small number were just released to the sold-out show). The gig is actually Chairlift’s Lollapalooza after-show. Alt-J opens.
By the way, the name refers to the triangle created on a Mac when you press the alt and J keys.
Check out more Alt-J videos after the jump.
Making the call: Your guide to Lollapalooza
As usual, there are hard choices to make at Lollapalooza. And unlike smaller festivals, it’s hard to run from end to end to catch multiple sets when bands are playing at the same time. Here are 10 time-slot conflicts and my resolution for each:
FRIDAY
Sharon Van Etten vs. Tame Impala: This is a tough one. Van Etten made a wonderful album this year but I just think Tame Impala is going to play a more lively set.
Passion Pit vs. the Shins: I saw the Shins a long time ago and I thought James Mercer was boring and pretentious. Passion Pit will change your life (not really but go see it).
Black Sabbath vs. Black Keys: Ozzy is an old wanker. Black Keys is a hot band. You gotta go with Black Keys.
SATURDAY
Jeff the Brotherhood vs. Bear in Heaven: I like the new Bear in Heaven album but Jeff the Brotherhood is going to be a lot more fun to watch.
U Got the Look – Jeff the Brotherhood
Tallest Man on Earth vs. Tune-Yards: This is another tough choice. Tallest Man on Earth wins by a whisker.
Twin Shadow vs. Bloc Party: Twin Shadow is really interesting but Bloc Party is going to put on a better show (if the band still has enough gas in the tank).
Santigold vs. Frank Ocean or the Red Hot Chili Peppers: I’m not feeling Frank Ocean. And the Red Hot Chili Peppers? Seriously? I’d love to hear Santigold perform her new songs.
SUNDAY
Dum Dum Girls vs. the Walkmen: Uhm, uhm … Dum Dum Girls for sure.
He Gets Me High – Dum Dum Girls
Florence + the Machine vs. At the Drive-In: Don’t miss this At the Drive-In reunion.
Justice vs. Jack White: A Justice concert would be a good time, but Jack White is the only truly great headliner at this year’s fest.
