ARTICLE BY JESSICA AMENTO
MARCH 10 | HOLLYWOOD—You know you’ve witnessed something great when you find yourself racing home to a thesaurus to pinpoint just what you’re feeling. Charmed? No. Transfixed? Getting closer. Inspirited. Yes, inspirited is the proper term to depict my emotional state after leaving The Mynabirds show at the Hotel Café in Hollywood Saturday night.
I have been waiting for a chance to catch the Omaha-bred band for awhile, and the five-piece coterie did not disappoint. Faithfully piloted under the strong and soulful vocals of Laura Burhenn—who, by the way, totally makes me want bangs—they turned out a fervent, feet-stomping set full of beating sticks, raise-your-fist lyrics, and dirty guitar. Included in the set list was the rebellious “Generals,” which is the first single from their sophomore album of the same name. Due for release June 5 from Saddle Creek, the record was produced with Oregon-based engineer Richard Swift (who moonlights as the Shins’ new keyboardist) as a secure sequel to the work he did on The Mynabirds’ debut album, What We Lost in the Fire We Gained in the Flood.
A political, punchy step-up, Generals is anticipated to cause a big stir. Download the title track for free now, and to those attending SXSW, be sure to catch these birds live on Friday, March 16, at Lamberts.
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