Portland band comes home for a show filled with creativity that includes a proposal
By Michael Houston
It's amazing how many instruments three guys can play in one night. During Menomena's show last Saturday night at the Crystal Ballroom, the group played the usual drums, guitar and bass, but also added saxophone and keyboards. All three also sing.
The band is from Portland, so it is only appropriate that the show is packed. Some people sing along, others nod their head, but everyone seems to have heard them before.
Menomena collaborates exceptionally well together. Drums are in melody, not rhythm, with the keyboard; guitar weaves through lyrics that are sung by all members; band member Justin Harris picks up the saxophone at just the right time.
And the band gets a sound on stage that replicates its studio work.
Menomena's latest album, "Friend and Foe," is full of original tracks. Songs use new and interesting sounds, and it is obvious that each member provides his own creative input to the songwriting process.
"You always said that we're friends/but that must depend on which way the wind blows" comes from the song "Weird" off this new album. The song talks about a quick-witted person who tends to ignore others when it becomes inconvenient.
Menomena's lyrics often revolve around people who tend to take advantage or treat others unfairly.
The musically gifted band also had some great intro music.
Opening band Shaky Hands also put on a good set at the show that included a marriage proposal from a band member and an acceptance.
Hands plays older sounding rock music that sounds like some early British rock bands, such as The Kinks.
