Danielson, an avant-pop gospel band from suburban Clarksboro, New Jersey led by Daniel Smith (guitar, lead vocals) comes to the Southern Theater in April hot on the heels of its just released Best of Gloucester County featuring a new band line up that includes Patrick Berkery (drums), Evan Mazunik (keyboards/vocals), Elin K. Smith (vocals), Joshua Stamper (bass/vocals), Andrew Wilson (lead guitar) and indie music darling Sufjan Stevens.
The band has what can only be described as ecstatic vision. Fronted by cult artist
Daniel Smith and comprised of an unusual consortium of family members and friends including his sisters Megan and Rachel and wife Elin, the band is known for its dramatic range, fearless writing about spiritual experience, innovative musical arrangements, and hand-made, deliberate uniforms. Danielson's previous release, Ships-featuring long-time collaborators Deerhoof, Sufjan Stevens and WHY?-is a crowning achievement that Pitchfork called "nearly dizzying" with "music that builds to such immense heights." Mythology-hounds have found in Danielson the full package, and tuning into its frequency can be as deeply rewarding in a literary-visual-musical way as are canonical acts such as Sun Ra, Parliament and
David Bowie.
"I saw Danielson for the first time at The Knitting Factory in NYC ten years ago," said Kate Nordstrum, music curator at the Southern. "The show left me in a state of utter shock, confusion and awe. I thought: Who are these people and what is their story? The cool thing about this band is how completely unique, honest, exuberant, and demanding of your attention it is. Danielson has much to say and I so appreciate the candor. To Twin Cities music lovers who've never seen these guys live: Don't miss the rare opportunity. It is a performance experience that in my mind goes unrivaled."
Performances: April 1 & 2, 2011
Fri. & Sat. at 8pm
Tickets: $20
$12 student rush
Southern Theater box office: 612.340.1725
1420 Washington Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55454
http://www.southerntheater.org/2011_04-01_danielson.htm
* Auxiliary Event *
The Southern Theater and Sound Unseen present
Danielson: A Family Movie
March 31, 2010
This independent documentary features interviews and concert footage to tell the unique story and message behind the band Danielson. Exploring unbridled creativity vs. accessibility, Christian faith vs. popular culture, underground music vs. survival, and family vs. individuality, this film follows
Daniel Smith, an eccentric musician and visual artist, as he leads his four siblings and best friend Chris to indie-rock stardom.
Opening set by (OME)
Post-screening Q&A with Danielson
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