StarTime International invaded Chicago last week with a pair of first class shows. The French Kicks started things off on Thursday night at the Metro and Brendan Benson got things cooking late Friday at the Double Door. Taking the stage shortly after midnight, Brendan Benson and The Wellfed Boys got rolling with “Good To Me,” and instantly had the intimate room in their collective pocket.
The Wellfed Boys are an exceptional band and the perfect compliment to Brendan’s act. I was impressed with their energy as well as their talent; a feeling shared by everyone I chatted with during and after the show. There was no question though that Brendan was the main attraction, as his catalogue of intelligent pop gems shines even brighter in a live setting. Songs like “Pleasure Seeker” and “Tiny Spark” are little treasures that everyone can identify, and have a good time with. Most of Brendan’s sophomore effort, Lapalco, was tapped throughout the night, and, believe me, there was no better place to be in Chicago last Friday than the Double Door. (A 3 a.m. stop at the rawkus Wiener Circle for some late night eats and a sailor’s dose of profanity does come in a close second.)
Isaac Green has put together quite a talented roster over at StarTime. I got to check out two of his bands for the first time in two consecutive days and, while they are nothing alike, both Brendan Benson and The French Kicks are the real thing. Thanks to StarTime for wrapping up last week with a bang.
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