Modest Mouse at the Paramount (Sneaky Phone Pic)

Modest Mouse at the Paramount (Sneaky Phone Pic)
Originally uploaded by PACNWTXN.

We got last minute seats to see Modest Mouse at the Paramount Theater this past weekend. Wow.

First of all, the theater is amazing. It was built in 1927, and has ornate detail EVERYWHERE. Even the drinking fountains are made of inlaid marble sculptures. The sound quality is unbelievable because of the curves and angles built into the theater. It was definitely engineered so that one could hear the crisp details, even in the cheap seats. This phone-cam picture shows a fraction of the detail. There are several domes and chandeliers in the ceiling.

Second - it was great to finally see the mice. Isaac Brock is one intense lead singer, and he lost his voice early on. That didn't stop him from screaming it out until the very end of the show. The band's newest member, Johnny Marr (former guitarist and lyricist for the Smiths) brings a whole new level to the band. By watching his stage presence, it is clear that he's been doing this for awhile (and will hopefully continue for awhile.) Another interesting element - seeing two drummers playing simultaneously brought energy to the performance. They almost seemed to be competing with each other for intensity, but their motions were both perfectly timed. The only drawback to the show was some occasional microphone feedback. Brock would get mad at the feedback and knock the offending mic over. That happened several times. It was hilarious...

I have two recommendations. If you get a chance to see a show at the Paramount, go. It beats a sports arena ANY day, and you’ll see attention to detail that is rare these days. Second, go see Modest Mouse.