In The Shadow: M.Ward Live at the World Trade Center

M. Ward; Victoria Williams; McCarthy Trenching
@ 7 World Trade Center Park
New York, NY - September 18, 2007

Across the street from the remains of the Twin Towers, New York City this week is trying something new - rock n' roll live from the break of the city's heart. Last night, transplanted Minnesotans the Hold Steady did their best, and tomorrow night, the legendary Nick Lowe will sweeten the pot, but tonight belonged to the thoughtful, evocative, and graceful Matthew Ward. Ward's blend of folk, country, and blues is distinct, particularly when he's singing in that shadowy, haunted voice that sounds like it's coming over a transistor radio from 1934. Those who always seem to want to point out Ward's penchant for surf rock sounds neglect to mention that the surf Ward has in mind is on a rainy, cold beach. Put this all together and you have a complete, accomplished musician. It also helps that he has a superb backing band that includes two drummers.

M.Ward performing "Four Hours In Washington":


Imagine Norah Jones, older, wiser, and a little spaced out, sitting on a rocking chair on a porch somewhere along the Appalachians and you have Victoria Williams. Seeming to be the last of the red hot liberal mountainfolk, Williams' music takes sharp but understandable turns from country music to a span of Jazz, most notably old time Hot Jazz, which just can't be beat. Her quirky voice never sounds like the aforementioned Jones, but more like the songstresses of old, notably Billie, right up to Katherine Whalen of Squirrel Nut Zippers.
McCarthy Trenching is from Omaha and boy, do they sound like it. What does that mean? It means they sound just fine - their penchant for alt-country smooth but slick - but it's also not very exciting.
Photos here.