The Grinch that Rocked Christmas

The Layabouts

Just as you’re getting ready to send off all of those thoughtful Christmas cards and gifts to the family back home, you spy the following shows – do you pay the postage or purchase the tickets?

December 14, Cira y Yo – This Madrid indie-pop duo has a loosely stictched
together sound that feels sort of like a first snow. The music is soft and
pleasant-sounding, yet retains a certain form – falling somewhere in the middle
of the scale between structured and totally nebulous. In the end, Cira y Yo is
one of those bands that can be “waking up” or “falling asleep” music.

(5 euro) 22:00 Juglar, Lavapies 37

Metro Lavapiés

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December 14, Layabouts – Another Madrid band that sings in English.
They formed with stated post-punk influences and the sort of new British take
on the originals: think the Killers and Franz Ferdinand taking after Joy
Division. Pretty good melodies, and a
solid overall package with the refreshing absence of the “darker”
more contrived elements that sometimes sneak into the post-punk sound.

(10 euro) 23:00
Sala Sol, Calle Jardines 3

Metro Gran Via

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December 19, Straightaway – This Parisian band sings English songs
reminiscent of NOFX,Lagwagon,Ataris, etc. Classic pop punk sound right out of
the mid to late nineties. Punk drums, palm muting, and the slightly strained
voices that pass seamlessly into two part harmony.

Barracudas Rock
Bar, Calle Brescia 19

Metro Ventas y Parque de las Avenidas

So in the end it’s a tough call: postage or tickets. In
order to aid you in your decision we remind you that not only was Jesus a
long-hair sort of rocker-looking guy, but the Bible also specifies, “Praise the LORD with harp… and an instrument
of ten strings. Sing unto him a new song; play skilfully with a loud noise”
(Psalm 33:1-4). We think you know what
you need do to – enjoy the concerts, your family will understand.

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