Wednesday, July 23, 2008

Must See Shows

The MFA is hosting several ear-catching performers as part of their summer courtyard series. Some artists that are worth exploring include:

Bon Iver with Bowerbirds - lead singer Justin Vernon's tale of transplanting himself to an isolated cabin in Wisconsin and unintentionally refocusing his musical frame of thought, is nearly inspiring enough but if you're looking for additional incentive to witness these performers together, what you'll pay for is fluid and dreamy vocals atop subdued, yet complementary, orchestral accompaniment. A particular favorite is "Skinny Love" which you can check out over at Bon Iver's link. Bon Iver and the Bowerbirds play at Remis Auditorium this Saturday, July 26.

Vetiver and Phosphorescent - an indie folk group who attempts to harmonize a cello with an acoustic guitar and a violin, all the while successfully narrating a story - take Remis Auditorium by storm August 1. The release of their new album, Thing of the Past, a compilation of choice covers, brings renewed fervor and energy in which listeners may delight.

Tift Merritt with Jason Collett of Broken Social Scene - USA Today harps that Tift is "a charming blend of country, rock, and Southern R&B", while Jason has proven to be a pivotal and enduring figure in the Indie scene as evidenced by his hit "Out of Time"and by his ability to maintain his mark for over 10 years now perfecting his Indie-turn-raw-rock n' roll style - will play in the courtyard Aug 6.

Of note at the MFA is also the French Film Festival that concludes this Sunday July 27, which will be followed up by the Roxbury Film Festival and the New Japanese Cinema come August. If you haven't stopped by for a French film showing yet, Thais recommends Woody Allen's Shall We Kiss, which plays one last time on closing night. Audrey Tatou, star of RUWF's favorite Amelie as well as The Da Vinci Code, can also be seen in Hunting and Gathering July 26.