The Merediths
05.05.05
Mercury Lounge (New York)
words: Amy Wagner
photos: Bryan Bruchman

If you think that the Kings of Leon are the only good thing to come out of the South since the days of Skynyrd, the Allmans or even R.E.M., think again. Ladies and Gentleman – introducing The Merediths; five affable young guys from Louisville, Kentucky who loaded up their gear, pointed their van North, put the pedal to the metal, and didn’t stop until they hit New York City.

Was the trip worth it? Yes, if only to prove to the east coast music mecca that there’s a startling new sound beckoning from the South. If you can believe it, The Merediths aren’t into waving flags or singing about sweet home Kentucky. They’re more interested in pop psychedelia.

Standout song “Marmalade Maggie” shimmered with just the right amount of emo-electronica ala The Beatles' “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds.” With little effort, lead singer Joe Meredith managed to make the vocals soar above the sonic sound created by keyboard wizard Jonathan York, who appeared buried behind his mounds of equipment.

Leaning more to the pop side were two great guitar-driven songs: “Let’s All Live Underground” and “Cruel Kind of Love." The latter was introduced as a love song. Not sure I felt the “love," but it still rocked!

The Merediths first EP, A Closed Universe (Debauchery Records) is available through their website. They’re a promising new band worthy of your support (read: your hard-earned dough and the time it takes to knock back a couple of Coronas).

Next on bill was local band Sam Champion, who is an all service sort of band. They’re named for a weatherman so they can probably tell you if an umbrella is necessary. Better yet, they know how to scope out the best bagel shops in town. According to lead singer Noah Chernin, “If there’s old people in there, then the bagels are good.” And lucky for us, they even play some rock n’ roll on the side.

Playing for an enthusiastic crowd, Sam Champion delivered a solid set in their comfortable laid-back manner, complete with a wardrobe of flannel shirts influenced by Neil Young. The four-piece band performed not only a round of songs from their upcoming LP release, Slow Rewind (Razor & Tie) but also tried out a bunch of new tunes on the hometown crowd.

“All of Our Tomorrows” is a 70’s throw back track that moved the crowd with its mix of prettiness and pathos. It’s about one draft (lyrics wise) away from being a truly classic song. “It’s Getting Late” was a solid little rocker that encouraged a bit of head bopping and hip shaking from onlookers.

New tunes also fared well. “Jealous Shakes," which included quite a bit of on and off-stage antics, is just cocky enough to become a live show staple for years to come. “We Will Awaken” was slower but still haunting, and included some great guitar work. If the band is as prolific at writing as they seem, I wish they’d hurry up, release their debut record, and rush back to the studio to work on a sophomore album.

Look for Sam Champion’s album Slow Rewind, set to hit stores this summer. And, be sure to check their website for a list of upcoming shows. You’ll be guaranteed a great live performance - guitar god theatrics included.