Rostam (3/27/18)

When I saw Rostam was doing a relatively short tour, I was thrilled to see an Oberlin date!  Such a quaint little college town, a treat to visit.  I’m guessing Rostam felt the same way, with a very young-leaning, jubilant crowd there for him.  Being a college town, the show didn’t even start until 10pm (with an opener!).  By the time Rostam took the stage, I was only able to stay for a couple songs - but he’s every bit as enjoyable to listen and watch live.  Loved his having a bevy of strings on stage with him as well - as you should in Oberlin.

PWR BTTM (12/5/15)

This would be the third show, in three nights, in three cities that weren’t Cleveland.  This show was worth the drive, though a stop at Fat Heads Brewery helped.  Opening was Joey Nebulous from Chicago, though from his interaction with the crowd - I feel like he was of local kin. 

PWR BTTM has been a recent favorite - from the moment I started listening to Ugly Cherries. Their last-minute announcement of their show was pretty exciting, and seeing it in Oberlin topped off the night. Their post-gay punk pop sound is refreshing.  

Shamir (10/10/15)

I knew the first minute I heard Shamir’s On the Regular, I was an instant fan.  Since that popular video & song, Shamir’s popularity has shot through the roof - most recently appearing in Apple Music’s ad.  When I saw he was going to be coming to Oberlin - I knew I was in for a treat.  It’s always interesting going out there to see a show, but it’s always a lovely time.  On this night, I do think Shamir’s popularity and schedule may have gotten to him, because he wasn’t very high-energy - but he still put on a great show.  He definitely got the kids moving… 

Perfume Genius (4/9/12)

I can't believe I almost missed this show.  I get all my concert info via the web these days, but was sorely reminded how I still need to pick up the print Scene once in a while.  Going through it at the Grog before the Cloud Nothings show revealed that Perfume Genius was play at The Sco in Oberlin!  One of those elusive, campus venues.  It's hard to get updates for these places unless you really try (or are a student on campus).  Thankfully they promote the shows in Scene.

This was a late show, far away, on a Monday night.  Still I was motivated.  We got to Oberlin early for a bite, then realized when the ad said 10pm that meant door times.  So we walked around a bit before being the first in the door.  First act didn't get on until 10:45.  Parenthetical Girls.  Have you seen them?  If so, I wish you would have told me about them before, they were tons of fun.  Wit, humor, talent, all while performing throughout the entire venue.  I'll see these guys ANYTIME.

Perfume Genius was a rather stark contrast in performance style, but he was excellent as well.  Many sweet songs, and a great way to wind down a LATE Monday night in Oberlin.  Check out a couple songs.