There are times when I walk into a show and know its going to be exciting. Something is in the air, some intangible magic pulling people together, forcing smiles onto their faces. We arrived to see the XX at the Tribeca Grand in the rain, half-expecting to sit outside in one of those “hotel-venue-lines.” It wasn’t to be, we were quickly ushered in and made our way to the basement. A sharply appointed, mysterious and darkened room, this wasn’t what I was expected. To me CMJ has become synonymous with grimy clubs, free shows in odd venues and venues with charmingly rough edges. A few people had already gathered on the dancefloor and more than a few were already staking out their stage spots, 4 hours early!

The DJs played a refreshing mix of new-wave, 90s house and techno re-rubs and proceeded to destroy the dancefloor. I’d been bored by the DJ format for sometime. The music seems stale and the performance completely predictable, but for record after record last night I was surprised and my butt was moved.

The XX arrived, sound-checked while the DJs were still playing (my condolences to the sound guy and the band.) Unfortunately, all the magic the DJs and crowd had built evaporated with the first note. Someone decided not to use the hefty sound system the DJs had been playing through all night, and now instead of being surrounded by the XX’s luscious guitars and grainy, haunting vocals, the crowd strained to hear. Death by sound system, I tried to pay attention, but the din of conversation in the room was louder than the music. That said, I could tell the band had something special and I will be back for another show.

I’m switching paces here (and tenses, sorry,) but I want to make my point as I see it and hear it now. Their music is delicate and intimate, and I know seeing them under different circumstances those qualities will pull me in and serenade.

Also, big shout out to Myles from Sneak Attack Media for turning me on to the XX in the first place, and for letting us know about the show. He’s the man for sure. Here’s my favorite for the moment, and buy link (please support the artists):

the XX – Shelter

the XX – Shelter (Them Jeans Drum Edit)

For more on CMJ and POSR’s perspective on the conference check out Wilson’s first day write-up on weareposr.com

Crisp air the sounds of summer’s last hurrah. We’re simultaneously giving up and celebrating winter’s arrival. I’ve been lucky to find myself in the company of so many talented people. Here is where dreams are thunder and life barrels down the tracks, subway style.

This year it feels smaller more intimate, more visceral. Maybe it’s the friends I’ve made or the personal triumpths of the past year that have made the difference. No matter how I look at it, it’s exciting. Bring on the music.

CMJ Music Marathon 2009

Tony Humphries, Little Louie Vega, David Morales and Barbara Tucker – Holy House Music