Thank God for The Brian Jonestown Massacre

^{Article by Ciara Rose Belfiore, cover photo by Jose Calvo}

Flavor Crystals is a psych rock band based in Minneapolis, MN and consists of vocalist/guitarist Josh Richardson, bassist Nat Stensland, guitarist Vince Caro, and drummer Jon Menke. Flavor Crystals and BJM have toured together in the past and make a great pair. They kicked off the night and had the crowd dancing along to their droning guitars and at one point even a melodica. Flavor Crystals put on a wonderful show and it's a breath of fresh air to watch a band actively collaborate, improvise, and play off one another during a set. 

Headed by Anton Newcombe, the Brian Jonestown Massacre have had several lineup changes throughout the years but its two most consistent members are Newcombe and Joel Gion on tambourine. Formed in the 90’s, BJM has amassed a cult-like underground following, well known both for their musical prowess as well as their on stage antics. The band took to the stage on Monday Night at the Metro backdropped by swirling lights and persian rugs, almost a visual reflection of their music. They performed fan favorites like "Anemone", "Straight Up and Down", and "Pish" but also spanned across their discography to play newer tracks like “#1 Lucky Kitty." In between songs, Newcombe recounted the backstory behind "Sailor," the band’s cover of "The Sailing Ship" by the Cryan’ Shames. He first heard the song while at a party in California and was instantly taken with it. He was struck by how similar it was both to the music BJM was presently making and what Newcombe hoped they would one day make in the future. Its presence in the setlist was a meaningful addition considering The Cryan’ Shames are from the Chicago suburbs. Occupying a space between psych rock and shoegaze, BJM’s music is at times hypnotic and it’s clear that the crowd was utterly enraptured. The band famously doesn’t do encores, and honestly, they don’t need to. Their sets are intentional and well crafted, with enough material to please both long-time and new fans. Once it’s all said and done, and the house lights come on, it’s clear that the Brian Jonestown Massacre without a doubt lives up to their formidable reputation.