Comments on: Sufjan Stevens @ 400 Bar

By: solace

solace — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:25:09 +0000

i should say, that’s not to say i didn’t appreciate the new stuff, it’s just in the context of hearing a brand new song live i’m always listening intently and it’s rare that i actually get INTO a song physically or emotionally the first time i hear it.

i wouldn’t say the new songs play to the strengths of what i love about Sufjan or what got me into his music with Seven Swans, but he’s such a talented musician & composer that i’m willing to give him the benefit of the doubt and won’t judge the songs until i’ve heard them on record a number of times.

By: solace

solace — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:08:08 +0000

i’ll be honest… of the new songs i only really dug 2 of the 5… and even of those 2 i felt they wore out their welcome by the end.

it was a very cool show, but def didn’t enjoy it nearly as much as his first 400 Bar show in 2004 (better than the First Ave 2005 gig tho).

was happy to hear the few Seven Swans songs we got tho (still my favorite record of his).

By: Paul P

Paul P — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 02:25:07 +0000

I was actually surprised by the lack of response from the crowd on the new songs. They were all so fantastic and easily overshadowed the old songs, in my humble opinion. What growth as an artist, whether it be positive or not (in the minds of others).

There were dozens of people that did not even bob their heads until they heard the first few notes of “Chicago” and that’s a real shame.

I think this is an opportunity and an experience that will never be replicated and I’m very glad that I was fortunate enough to partake in it.

Also, kudos to Cryptacize for playing a very joyful and enjoyable set.