Algiers

Many words have been written about Algiers since their self-titled debut dropped a few months ago, so I’m not going to spend a lot of time discussing their politics, background, or influences. Anyone reading this is probably fully aware that the band layers gospel, blues and soul over industrial post-punk to create a (slightly volatile) platform for Franklin James Fisher to voice his rage against unjust societies across the globe. Comparisons to Suicide, The Gun Club, Nick Cave, the bluesier side of Tom Waits’ Brawlers, Bawlers & Bastards, and even Fela Kuti and Public Enemy, are all completely legit, but to try to compartmentalize Algiers into a smattering of subgenres, credited to the influencers who pioneered them, would be doing the band a disservice. Formed in London, with roots in the Deep South, Algiers are creating music that could only be created in today’s climate. Just as the current cultural difficulties we are facing weren’t created in a vacuum, songs like “Blood”, “Black Eunuch” and “Irony. Utility. Pretext.” use the past as a foundation to build something completely unique…and entirely modern.

It was because of that music that I found walking into Larimer Lounge a slightly disappointing experience last night. I realize the internet is a deceptive place, but with the overwhelming praise heaped upon Algiers and their debut album (not to mention it really is one of the best albums of the year), I was expecting a sold-out show. I expected heated ‘think piece’ conversations to come alive over PBRs and IPAs on the back patio, while the heavy sounds of BAMBARA bled out of the packed, musty venue. But when I found myself on the other side of the black curtain, I was surprised to find myself relatively alone. It was 10:15pm and the space was empty. The patio was occupied by nothing more than a lone bartender shivering in her North Face parka. An hour later, there were maybe twenty people in attendance as the guys were setting up their gear. The crowd would double in size by the time the opening bells were chiming through the PA, but Algiers ended up giving new meaning to the word ‘intimate’ before their fifty minute set was over.

I love the energy of those musicians and I was clearly not disappointed. This concert was one of the best concert I never attend. Thanks a lot to them for their generosity and the quality of the show.

Unfortunately the concert was cancelled. Due to Coronovirus all gigs in Lombardy were cancelled, so can't really say, but the album is great...
I really hope they will come to Milan soon :-)

t was a very cool concert. The band is very present and has a really great, own sound. And the voice of James Fisher is amazing. I will definitely see them again when they are back in town.

Guys really put in the effort. Terrible sound setup at the venue.
Sometimes it sounded like I was at a demo session.

Though, I think the last years concert was better.