Drum Machines, PBR, and Good Times: Reflections of Genghis Tron's Album Release Tour

Very rarely does one have the opportunity to see a line-up that is as musically diverse but also as universally talented as is the line-up for Genghis Tron’s album release tour. On the road for this tour GT brought along label mate and electronic innovator Steve Moore, as well as the drummerless punk duo The Austerity Program, on Sunday, February 24th at Great Scott in Allston Massachusetts, local experimental metallers Disappearer rounded things out. This was one of those shows were you could tell that most of those in attendance hadn’t shown up merely for something to do, but that there was a real sense of excitement and anticipation for the sets which, from top to bottom, would feature new material and rare appearances. The presence of local standouts such as Kurt Ballou of Converge (also the producer of GT’s new record) helped fuel the buzz.

Disappearer Kicked the evening off. As the most conventional sounding band of the evening, (not to mention the only one with a live drummer) they still managed to draw the audience in with catchy riffs and a strong stage presence. The band’s slower and more repetitive stoner sound eventually gave way to some choppier riffs that that had a lot of heads bobbing in the audience. The variety and general heaviness of the band’s sound, combined with a solid stage presence made it a memorable performance.

After the first set the drum kit was packed away for good in favor of a small electronic box. My good friend and companion Nick Larocque had a good feeling about this band from the moment Neil Young came on over the speakers as the between-set music. As it turns out he wasn’t disappointed. Despite a slow start to their set and being noticeably uncomfortable with their live show, The Austerity Program still managed to kick a lot of ass. As the set progressed both members became more comfortable, and really put a lot of their energy into their performance. Their sound is original and decidedly minimalist, but the most refreshing thing about their show is how evident it is that they are playing music that they love and feel strongly about without any pretension or hidden agenda.

Steve Moore was up next. I’m not sure that the crowd was quite sure what to do with Steve, but in an “I like something about this, but I’m not sure what” way. Some people dances, others sat, but most stared trying to let the rich soundscapes sink in. watching Steve Moore’s live show is a different experience than listening to his record. When he performs there are no stops or pauses. He starts with simple electronic rhythms, to which he steadily adds texture and variation. It’s not until he finishes that the audience really realizes what a unique sonic experience they have just had.

Finally, Genghis Tron’s show was really something to be impressed by. Their light show, which is new to this tour, complimented their musical style perfectly. It was simple, chaotic, and extremely stimulating. Genghis Tron, who only a few months ago was an amateurish, opening band with an often shaky live show, has matured into a powerhouse of a live band (a feet particularly impressive when only one member plays a conventional instrument). Their set list was well constructed; they opened with “Board up the House” the title track and opener of their new album, and continued to deliver a solid mix between their more spacious tracks and their spastic grinders. They didn’t forget to include some of the choice cuts from their earlier records including “White Walls” and “Arms.”

The most exciting thing about this show was its emphasis on innovative and resourceful styles and the celebration of eclectic sounds. I’ve heard people joke about these electronic oriented bands being the future of music. While I doubt that drum machines and keyboards will ever replace the real things, I hope that tours like this are indicative of the future in that we will see greater acceptance in musical diversity and eclecticism and bands won’t have to worry about defying against genre conventions and expectations.