My stepfather looks just like David Bowie

Behind Local H and Nirvana, Built To Spill might be my 3rd favorite band/artist. There are other contenders (Bob Dylan, Rocket from the Crypt, Pavement...), but Built To Spill's place is secure (for a little while at least) after last night's show at First Avenue. Having seen them twice previously in less than adequate venues, I was blown away by the combination of their finely tuned craft, near perfect set list, and First Ave's sound. Not only is Doug Martsch one of the best guitarists of all time, but BtS has the rare gift of a perfect balance between melody and rock and roll energy. And they have been putting out consistently superb records since 1993 (or even longer if you count Martsch's previous band Treepeople). Oh, and there is also Martsch's solo album and collaboration with Calvin Johnson in The Halo Benders to consider. Built To Spill's band members were evidently enjoying themselves and it spilled over into the crowd. They have a new album coming out on Oct. 6 titled There Is No Enemy, but we only got 2 previews of it last night. Their last album, 2006's You In Reverse, was their most Neil Young influenced and my second favorite of theirs behind the 1997 masterpiece Perfect From Now On. Needless to say, my anticipation is immense (still no leak, but pre-ordered), despite the nightmare-inducing album art (see below). Here is a nice mix of new and old tracks played last night, but expect a comment on the new album in the coming weeks and a post on Perfect From Now On in the future...

Built To Spill - Big Dipper
Built To Spill - Distopian Dream Girl
from There's Nothing Wrong With Love
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Built To Spill - Carry the Zero
from Keep It Like a Secret
buy

Built To Spill - Wherever You Go
Built To Spill - Conventional Wisdom
from You In Reverse
buy