The Sea and Cake… Oui could Harp On and On about how good they are

Review: The Sea and Cake at Scala London

Published on March 10th, 2013 | Jonny Abrams

The word ‘awesome’ is grossly overused in these times of ironic Chuck Norris veneration, but Rocksucker could have no qualms about you applying it as a description for The Sea and Cake with Tortoise pair Douglas McCombs and John McEntire as their rhythm section. How bloody brilliant is Thrill Jockey‘s roster? Very bloody brilliant, that’s how bloody brilliant.

Speaking of bloody brilliant, Sam Prekop and co. demonstrated to a mesmerised Scala crowd that, in case there was any doubt whatsoever, they can call from one of the finest back catalogues going, one that they keep adding to with gems such as last year’s glowing Runner album. Dynamic and energised performances of numbers like “On and On” and “Harps” go down a treat in this intimate setting, while the bleepy, gloopy electronics of Car Alarm cut “Weekend” signal straight from the off that the group’s ‘crossover’ tendencies translate seamlessly into the live arena.

As well as taking bass duties for The Sea and Cake, McCombs also begins the evening’s entertainment with an airing of material from his Brokeback side project, including from luscious recent LP Brokeback and the Black Rock. Thrill Jockey remains a haven of multi-faceted, richly rewarding music, and tonight makes for an exemplary showcase.

Rocksucker says: Four and a Half Quails out of Five!

a quail a quail a quail a quail half a quail

Click here to read our interview with Eric Claridge of The Sea and Cake

Click here to read our interview with Douglas McCombs of Tortoise and Brokeback

Artists: brokeback, the sea and cake, tortoise

About the Author

Jonny Abrams Editor of Rocksucker and the website's founder, Jonny is passionate about the music he listens to, both good and bad, as well as interviewing his favourite musicians.