Music Review
Dan Layus (Laura Frazier | THE BEACON)
By Laura Frazier, Living Editor -- frazier13@up.edu
I had almost forgotten how simply awesome it is to experience shows when musicians surpass the quality of their recorded tracks. Graffiti 6 and Augustana reminded me that some musicians don't need Auto-Tune at their Jan. 22 show at the Doug Fir Lounge on Burnside Street.
Hailing from London, I was pleasantly surprised with newcomer Graffiti 6. Lead singer Jamie Scott has possibly one of the most original voices I have recently heard.
And he knows how to use it.
Both soothing on slow tracks, like "Over You," and invigorating with his popular single "Free," I am not surprised that both Jay Leno Show and Rachael Ray recently featured him on their shows. And that accent! Another perk to live shows- the performers talk in between tracks.
Though only the opener for this show, I am looking forward to Graffiti 6's musical progress.
Augustana took the stage full force and hardly slowed down for the next two hours. I was instantly engrossed in lead singer Dan Layus' powerful vocals and the energetic performances by the rest of the band. They hit all the favorites, and I loved singing along with no inhibitions to tracks like "Boston" and "Shot in the Dark."
With a great blend of their foundational tracks and their latest stuff, I was impressed with the band's versatility. I loved their bright pop as well as the grittier sound of their more recent hits. The band also performed their latest tracks that are yet to be released. A great surprise, I am now anticipating their next album.
But what I appreciated most about this show was the clear fact that the groups were really just playing music they love for the crowd that adores them. In the small lounge, I couldn't help but be completely absorbed. I was a tentative fan of both Augustana and Graffiti 6 before the show, but I am in it for the long haul now.
