11 Jan 12 - part 1: Common Shiner

...think Jake got a pair of panties...

Hey, blogspot readers, it's a double shot Wednesday! SouthSide's rockin' two shows around town during one incredible night. First, she's at Wicker Park's hip rock venue, Double Door, for another $1 show to see longtime friend, Common Shiner perform. This bargain priced local show also featured performances by Simpleton & City Folk, Michael Lux & The Bad Sons, Bobcat Williams and Little Big Fat. But alas, this reviewer could only stay for one performance. She had to dash away to her next show rockin' Whistler at Logan Square to hang out with Claudettess. Both are highly recommended in seeing at their next performances.

It has been a very long time since SouthSide last saw her friend and was very anxious to see how they've changed over the years. Performing brand spanking new songs (as well as a couple of favorites and cover), Common Shiner once again impressed this reviewer with the band's melodic piano-driven/contemporary pop rock sound and picturesque imagery within the lyrics. The trio of vocals by Michael (keyboards), Morgan (electric/acoustic) and Jake (bass) not only brought out the heartfelt tenderness heard inside Common's songs but also the meaningful yet inspirational messages.

For example, during one particular song, besides enjoying the boisterous power of the music and tempo, SouthSide found peace wihtin the inspirational words of encouragement when hearing "...with sharks around ...we die if we stop swimming..." Or listen to the picturesque story about Jacob (in which the soulfully dynamic music had the entire venue at a silent standstill until the last note died) as well as the optimistic poetry of the song titled The Optimist. This reviewer higly suggests listening to Common's Interdemensional Love Song though less symphonic in sound, she enjoyed the soothing contemporary pop/rock melody which spotlighted the emotional tone heard from the heartfelt lyrics. Plus the music vibrantly popped when the acoustic sound was replaced with electrifying electric riffs that sparked more energy without loudly overshadowing the fantastic vibe.

Besides rockin' the stage with a lively Go West cover of King of Wishful Thinking (an upbeat piano rhythm Common Shiner style), the band also rocked the stage with a lively version of their acoustic song, Sleep In (off Common Shiner's acoustic album). Despite now hearing the original version, SouthSide liked the upbeat tempo and pop/rock sound wonderfully provided within in this radio-ready tune for contemporary music listeners to enjoy.

Common Shiner needs your help, blogspot readers. The band is currently raising funds to finance their next album on indiegogo.com (it's almost like Kickstarter.com) - they know times are tough and will accept any donation amount that you can afford. Visit http://www.commonshiner.bandcamp.com or http://www.facebook.com/commonshiner for details.


Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide