Maybe I don’t get out enough. When I think multiple local bands on a single bill, I think of Noise Pop Fest, or maybe Phono Del Sol. Certainly something of a local festival flavor, or maybe a tiny bar. That’s why I was excited to hear about Andrew St James pulling together some friends and fellow local musicians at The Chapel for an event billed as FAST TIMES.
The night started out with the debut live performance of Holy Spirit aka Fast Times. This brand-spanking-new three-piece consists of Andrew St James on vocals and bass, Duncan Nielsen on vocals and guitar, and Cody Rhodes on drums. Truth be told, they were the main draw for me, and they did not disappoint. Lots of energy and jangle, and whatever the second-to-the-last song was blew us all away. I’m excited to hear more.
Perhaps I have been living under a rock, as this was also my first time seeing local favorites French Cassettes live. They had the crowd dancing and bobbing to and fro for the entirety of their set. This got a bit more mellow with Sandy’s. My one regret of Outside Lands was I hadn’t made it over to The Panhandle Stage at noon on Sunday to see them in my favorite sleepy spot of the festival. Based on Saturday’s set, I could see why they had that sweet spot at the fest. Slow and swooning guitar-based tunes to remind you to breath out a wee-bit slower, and just relax and enjoy the moment. I hope we get more nights like this one at The Chapel.
