Concert Review: Dentist Provides A Blended Performance.
I know what you are asking, “Blended?” What is a “blended performance?” It is an odd, undefinable balance between two sets of emotions. In this case, it was adrenaline and calm. Dentist provides an energy mix that makes you either want to jump for joy or sink unto a couch and quietly jam in your head. They are a band that makes you want to do everything, in part, because they are everything.
I have said it in my interview with guitarist Justin Bornemann and album review of Ceilings: DENTIST IS DISTINCT! They are their own vibe and sound, which inherently makes their performance style their own. First, they have a garage band charm to them. I know that could be perceived wrongly, but let me explain. In almost every great band film. they start out a group of friends in the garage trying to rise. In the movie, the band is determined to revive music and are confident that they can give “the scene” a beating heart. Dentist pumps that imaginative dream with their natural hunger and frenetic energy. They know they are rising, and that knowledge makes them generous to give a good play.
Sometimes, in a concert, you can tell that a band wants to distinguish itself in the music scene. I note the difference because, for some bands, their goal is to just be apart of it, which is not wrong. You just want to make music and get your stuff out there: no overthought. Yet, other bands want to stick out of the music scene. They want to build their own limelight in the music industry’s vast stage, and be a new, fresher option of shine. It is not whether they can or cannot or whether they have the talent or not, they have the sheer will. Dentist wants to leave a mark, and I find that drive refreshing.
Admittedly, I am a huge fan of 90’s garage-grunge. I also love pop and 1950’s surf clubs. Thus, hearing them find a middle-ground between these eclectic genres will cause many to be enamored with them, and the few that do not like them, at least, respect their unique talents. Moreover, I will continue praising Emily Bornemann’s “echoey” voice. Like recently reviewed artist, Weyes Blood, they have that haunting, soft vocals that make music sound like a distant bellow of beauty: untouchable and rich. Live, her pixie energy and the cool, wavy sounds deliciously contrast the hypnotic somberness of her voice. Hence, the “blended performance” comment; they are bitter and sweet.
Dentist has a grounded, approachable feel to their style. I could not help but walk out of their performance wishing them well and greater heights. Sometimes, you see a band and you say they are great and move on. Yet, when you see Dentist, you say they are great and wish them to move up! Check out their official site HERE. They played on June 25, 2016 at Berlin in NYC.
