It is a misty night in Davis Square, a bustling district on the outskirts of Boston. Consisting primarily of college students and many people not deterred by the rain on a Friday night, the folks of Somerville know right where to go on a night like this: The Somerville Theater, a cozy, double-use repertory theater. Featuring a cinema, as well as a grand auditorium for performances occupying the main floor, the venue's charm creates a vintage sentiment in the district. It is classic and appealing for those who desire a slight taste of something new, all the while containing a soft sense of old-style entertainment.
The smell of fresh popcorn really sets the tone for a humble night. People are bustling ever so quietly to get seated. Dimly lit, and ever so hushed — the atmosphere was heavy with anticipation. With each patron relaxed and awaiting the inception of the show.
Norfolk & Western are supporting Mirah on her fall tour. I must say, both acts compliment each other very well. Coming all the way from Portland, OR, neither artist boasts any elements of exhaustion from the road. Playing lusted, well written songs transcribed in a manner not many people are used to hearing. Norfolk & Western have a pleasant demeanor about their sound, forwarding a fashion that favors that of the old fashioned stage for which they play upon.
Adam Selzer the band's founder and front-man is certainly not an amateur to the indie music business, having played with M.Ward, as well as supporting M. on previous tours. The group creates a folk-tastic, harmonious dynamic; each member providing their own significant experiences. Rachel Blumberg, the former drummer of The Decemberists, is a key element to Norfolk & Western with a drumming style to counter their organic manner. Rachel also provides much of the song-writing in addition to the percussion. The other band members rotate:Tony Moreno, Amanda Lawrence, Dave Depper, and Cory Gray each bring a homage and respectable measure to the band, with other projects consisting of: Horsefeathers, The Village Green, and Blanket Music.
This all goes to say that Norfolk & Western is a well-rounded circuit of musicians.
The show went off without a hitch, fairing a few songs from the older-stuff such as “Barrels on Fire” off The Unsung Colony (2006) – a personal favorite of mine. They are touring in support of their newest album Dinero Severo, which in my opinion is a different aspect of their ‘typical’ genre all together.
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