The Black Heart Procession

Photo by Sandy Carson

The Black Heart Procession

This wasn't the right time or place to watch the Black Heart Procession. Guitarist Pall Jenkins and keyboardist Tobias Nathaniel looked uncomfortable with the sun in their eyes, and between the dust and noise from other stages, the day's distractions neutralized the hypnotic power of the San Diegans' songs. It didn't help, either, that drummer Joe Plummer couldn't make it. His substitute didn't cut it, and without solid rhythmic backing, BHP's groove and momentum foundered. The set wasn't a total loss; "Your Church Is Red" and closer "It's a Crime I Never Told You About the Diamonds in Your Eyes" were worth watching, though they didn't capture the uncanny gloom that makes the group unique. Perhaps this is a band better experienced on disc. Or perhaps a simple club gig would do the trick. Nobody's at their best when looking directly into the sun and competing with Killdozer.