With CALLUM EASTER At Revolution Hall

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All Photos By Krishta Photography

I had no idea who either of these artists were before going to this show. I like that.

There was one other photographer, originally from Edinburgh, Scotland, (where this band originated) that hyped both bands, stating he was friend's with the opener's mom, CALLUM EASTER, who also plays in the headlining act (keyboards, guitar), YOUNG FATHERS. She asked that he send her a lot of photos of her son. Very sweet. Call your mom folks. He went on to say that it was amazing that we were going to see this band in such an intimate venue as Revolution Hall in Portland, OR. He told me to give them a year, and we'd be lucky to find a spot in the photo pit at a sold out arena. He wasn't wrong.

I am a huge, (which is an understatement) fan of accordion. Callum took to the stage with a minimalist set up. A computer, a couple of microphones, and (YES!) an accordion. The only description I can call his music is dark, indie accordion music. I've never seen an accordion played like this. His vocals were smooth and heartfelt, the accordion deep and dark with back track beats playing from his computer.

When YOUNG FATHERS came onto the stage, the venue had filled with the typical Portlandesque quirky folks; those with mustaches, colorful tights and mary jane shoes, (which wasn't the only mary jane that made an appearance at this show). Of course, not being familiar with this band, or their songs, I had no idea what to expect. It was in all honesty, the most original, unique music I've ever heard. That says a lot. Heavy in percussions, it was tribal and heavy with so many genres packed into each song, and not one sounding like anyone else's music. So refreshing, and hard to achieve in a business so accustomed to linking familiar songs to obvious influences. They are truly one of a kind.

Formed in 2008, Alloysious Massaquoi, Kayus Bankole and Graham "G" Hastings, they won the Scottish Album of the Year award in 2013. They won the Mercury Prize for their debut album, Dead, and a second album, White Men Are Black Men Too, followed in 2015. They played Glastonbury recently. They are presently on as supporting act for DEPECHE MODE. They are an absolutely thrilling and original band to see.

SETLIST:

• "Get Started"
• "Queen Is Dead"
• "Wow"
• "Get Up"
• "Rain or Shine"
• "Old Rock n Roll"
• "Be Your Lady"
• "I Heard"
• "In My View"
• "Drum"
• "Rice"
• "Ululation"
• "Geronimo"
• "I Saw"
• "Shame"
• "Toy"