Week in Rock: Pavement Edition

Deerhoof Take Manhattan

Every time we see the inimitable Deerhoof, we suddenly remember that they're one of our favorite bands to catch live. While they're not one of those groups you have to experience live to "get," there is an added dimension, an "x factor," that comes through under the right circumstances. Perhaps it's that the sometimes alienating idiosyncrasies of their songs benefit, in a live performance, from the kooky, charming warmth of their personalities. Tuesday night at Le Poisson Rouge (arguably Manhattan's best newish club) found the San Francisco-based quartet in fine form following their appearance upstate at All Tomorrow's Parties. The thrilling set included covers of the Ramones (”Pinhead”) and, most deliciously, '60s band Canned Heat (”Going Up The Country”). But the highlight, perhaps, was a riveting new song, "I Did Crimes for You" that drummer Greg Saunier introduced as having changed radically during soundcheck. It's that willingness to take risks and explore their unpredictable musical ideas that makes Deerhoof so exciting. But don't take our word for it; you can hear this show yourself thanks to NYCTaper! - John Del Signore

(Photo by Kate Ehle)