Maps & Atlases @ The Echo, LA 5/2/13

May 06. 2013 | By Andre Cruz

Upon entering The Echo, first act Mylets were already on stage playing an enthusiastic set. For those unfamiliar with the act, it’s a one man band by Henry Kohen. It was an entertaining sight to see Henry construct and deconstruct every song, definitely an artist to look out for. Next up were Chicago natives Young Man, the brainchild of singer/songwriter Colin Caulfield. The band played atmospheric guitar driver rock that was warmly welcomed by the guests in attendance. Maps & Atlases set up quickly except for guitarist Erin Elders who seemed to be having some technical difficulties with his synthesizer. Lead singer/guitarist Dave Davison could be seen greeting friends amongst the crowd and, after a brief moment, Maps & Atlases appeared on stage to a noisy and energetic response.

Maps and Atlases @ The Echo, LA 05-03-2013

Maps and Atlases @ The Echo, LA 05-03-2013

Maps and Atlases @ The Echo, LA 05-03-2013

Drummer Chris Hainey displayed an absurd amount of energy providing the evening with some ridiculous and excellently executed beats. Dave stopped to thank the crowd saying, “We love playing LA, especially hanging around in this area” before going into “Pigeon” with those in attendance assisting by sing along. Guitarist Erin Elders played with such precision, deep in concentration while switching from guitar to synthesizer during songs. While tuning their instruments between songs Dave again thanked the crowd and the opening bands, then played a slightly different version of “Old And Grey” that mixed into “Remote And Dark Years.” This song was also played with different arrangements, the crowd didn’t seem to mind much, dancing and staring off in an almost trance.

Maps and Atlases @ The Echo, LA 05-03-2013

Maps and Atlases @ The Echo, LA 05-03-2013

Maps and Atlases @ The Echo, LA 05-03-2013

Dave showed off his signature crooning with “Will,” a bluesy rock jam that doesn’t actually have lyrics, but is still a very emotionally inspired song. This led into “The Charm” similar to the order it appears on their first full length Perch Patchwork.

Maps and Atlases @ The Echo, LA 05-03-2013

Maps and Atlases @ The Echo, LA 05-03-2013

Shiraz showed off a groovy bass line while dancing with a march during “Old Ash.” This was proceeded by “If This Is,” “Living Decorations,” and “Solid Ground.” By this time temperatures were high in the small club with bodies dancing to a sweat. The band also played a very cool cover of “Everybody Wants To Rule The World” by Tears For Fears. An excellent display of musicianship by one of the most underrated bands. Do yourself a favor and never miss a Maps & Atlases show, once you experience them live, you will see why.

Maps and Atlases @ The Echo, LA 05-03-2013

Maps and Atlases @ The Echo, LA 05-03-2013

Maps and Atlases @ The Echo, LA 05-03-2013

Check out all the photos HERE.

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