Death From Above 1979
You’re a Woman, I’m a Machine (Last Gang)
Imagine Queens of the Stone Age without the pot. That’s the small picture. The large view of Toronto duo Death From Above 1979 is much simpler: two guys with mustaches, a bass and a drum kit, on 10. DFA79’s full-length debut is electro-metal tracks fed through a pop grinder. Bassist and keyboardist Jesse F. Keeler isn’t afraid to go above the first five frets of his axe, while drummer and singer Sebastien Grainger alternates between seductive whispers and wailing screams, all while beating the shit out of his kit. Despite the multitasking, You’re a Woman, I’m a Machine is a lesson in less is more. Opener “Turn It Out” is as metal as a twopiece can get, the bass slipping into the guitar spot as Keeler grinds out quick riffage heard from the likes of Mastodon. Vocals are firmly planted in pop; “Romantic Rights” heads toward the dance floor, primarily on the rim of Grainger’s hi-hat. Highlight “Blood on Our Hands” is a combo of metal, pop, dance, and politi-punk. “Black History Month,” “Cold War,” and “Pull Out” reflect the conscience of these intelli-rockers, but after the title track and closer “Sexy Results,” there’s no question that conscience and indulgence can co-exist. (Thursday, March 17, 1am @ Blender Bar @ the Ritz)
This article appears in March 18 • 2005.