Concert Review: Rebel And A Basketcase Let Loose At Rough Trade
Electro- Indie Pop is the genre Rebel And A Basketcase proudly proclaim, as they have managed to turn regular dreams into virtual ones through their simple strike of a guitar and drum. I cannot lie and say I was not curious of this band because of Evan Rachel Wood. She is an acclaimed actress, and I am always fascinated when prominent actors try to become prominent musicians because, for me, the two worlds are so deeply interconnected. Whether I am acting or singing, a new layer of my spirit is furthered and fleshed. Hence, I understand the fascination actors have with musicians, and vice versa. We are supposed to be representative of humanity by discovering it through song or act. Therefore, I was super excited to see Wood rock the mic and keys like a boss.
Both Villa and Wood seemed so excited to be onstage. They approached their performance like two children giddy over new toys. There was a sparkle in their eyes and twilight in their presences as they knew that to leave a mark in the industry, like Bowie, you have to act as if you are already a marker. They played their songs with an inner brilliance that made their energy infectious in its semblance of eternity. As these two danced and played their instruments as if they were playing with their children, they entered a mental/ emotional space where life feels like it can last forever. Such a spirit made you want to jump when they jumped or yell and sway right there with them. They simply commanded a level of following by presenting a mutuals zest for the stage. Dynamic duo might be a perfect, second title for this band that has one of the best chemistries I have ever seen. Their love for performance and each other only expands the theatrical ambiance they induce.
There is definitely a theatricality in Rebel And A Basketcase’s demeanor. They are so vibrant with both their looks and embodiments of their songs that their concert is not a music show but as MUSIC SHOW! That level of happiness and pride in the music you are making leaves audiences feeling shared in your empowerment. Moreover, there music is really good. It feels more than electro-indie pop. It feels like an 80’s vortex of synthetic, candy clad sounds and youthfulness. Alright, I know the is an oddly deep but abstract thought. Yet, Rebel And A Basketcase sum up the blend of abstract and depth nicely. They are the colorful alternative to those that wish to embrace their weirdness as a vivacious badge of honor rather than a burdened sense of anarchy. I am genuinely excited to hear more of their positive, dance rhythms, because they remind me of the strange but stunning John Hughes films of latter day. This is no surprise as his films deeply inspired their work.
