It’s been a tough last year for the Dears. Since 2006 (and the release of the critically acclaimed Gang of Losers), the Montreal-based orchestral pop unit lost 5/7 of its members and — by account of lead singer/guitarist Murray Lightburn — almost broke up.
But sometimes crisis leads to beautiful things, and this was one of those instances. Lightburn used the passion and introspection to craft a new record — the raw, emotive Missiles — assembled a new 7-piece, and was back on the road in no time, nurturing audiences with his velvety smooth voice and grand cinematic compositions. Judging from their show last night at Johnny Brenda’s, you would never guess the Dears were anything other than stable.
The Dears have always been known for their theatrical, liberating performances, and last night was no exception. The show began almost seamlessly when Lightburn snuck into the audience – black leather jacket and wireless mic – and the music transitioned effortlessly from house sounds to the slow slip-rock of “Savior.” All of a sudden, there he was in front of everyone, tonguing each syllable gloriously like some sort of rock star Jesus.
The rest of the band crept on to the stage slowly, and by the end of the first number, the venue was filled with warm, sprawling pop. It was wildly effective, and a perfect example of how the Dears’ sound works: songs grow slowly and organically, adding layer upon layer of guitar and keys until suddenly, 10 minutes have gone by and you don’t even notice because you’re entranced and completely enveloped in a world of heartfelt romance and ecstasy.
The Dears played for an hour and a half, regaling the crowd with both new tracks and old favorites, and displaying a passion and intensity delightfully matched by the openers.
LA-based Eulogies kicked things off, a relatively young act signed to front man Peter Walker’s Dangerbird Records (the same label as the Dears.) Live, they were upbeat and inviting, churning out understated indie rock anthems with catchy choruses and ample tambourine playing that belied their depressive moniker. Definitely an act to watch!
Great Northern was up next, offering a moody set of dark dramatic pop that might have been billowy and throw-away if not for the angst-y rock vocals of impassioned alto Rachel Stolte and the heart-wrenching crooning of Solon Bixler. They too blew me away with their full sound and emphatic playing. Download the track “Houses.” I promise you will not be disappointed!
Line-ups this good are hard to find, and last night’s show seemed to amaze and delight everyone. I’m glad the Dears weathered their internal storm – they’ve emerged more triumphant than ever.
