FRICTION NYC

I wasn’t sure what quite to expect going into Beirut’s set last night at The Knitting Factory (which was packed). On stage, Beirut took the form of a four-piece, with guest drummer Bryan Devendorf of The National (no Jeremy Barnes last night). The first couple songs of the set didn’t really translate that well on stage due to some first show jitters and trouble getting the ukulele’s tuned and to come over the PA correctly. Throughout the set Condon was busy swapping between his ukelele, trumpet, and vocals. It wasn’t until toward the end of the set, that it seemed like they got things working for them. Two songs that really came across well last night included ‘Mount Wroclai’, which Condon jokingly referred to it as the “blog smash hit” and ‘Closing Song’. Both of these songs had that old world Balkan feel to them and Condon’s deep crooning vocals were the highlight of the night. Condon already has an excellent album under his belt and I’m sure the live show isn’t too far behind.

Also there last night was Amrit (Village Indian), Jerry (Yeti Don’t Dance), and Brooklyn Vegan. Catch Beirut at The Mercury Lounge on May 22 with Sunset Rubdown and Frog Eyes (tickets).