NXNE Critical Conclusions for Eight and a Half (North By Northeast 2013 Concert Review)

Heading up the 11pm show on our NXNE schedule was Eight and a Half. We had previously enjoyed their opening set for The Jezabels last fall.

Eight and a Half @ BLK BOX for NXNE (Copyright: PeteHatesMusic / Martin Bazyl)

Venue: BLK BOX

First Impressions: Solid rhythm section. Promising electronic parts.

Stage Presence: Nothing too exciting besides the occasional brushing aside of the hair. Even the banter was a little odd, including “We are Eight and a Half, and um…Yeah.” The mic is yours – command it.

Eight and a Half @ BLK BOX for NXNE (Copyright: PeteHatesMusic / Martin Bazyl)

Random Observation: There were a lot of tall people in the crowd. I’m 6 foot tall, and I was standing next to a girl who was taller than me. The band should rename themselves Eight and a Half Feet, after the crowd, amirite? No Pete, you’re not.

Crowd Reaction: Muted but respectful.

The Last Word: 7.0 /10 – I could feel bass in my body at times, which was cool. Having liked their set the first time, I was excited to listen now knowing a few more of their songs. However, I found myself a little disappointed. The songs were not catchy, nor overly interesting at times. I remember a more electronic component at the forefront of their sounds, but it didn’t seem to be as present. They have great parts to songs, and good musical talent, but it didn’t come together in a way that excited me.

Check out even more photos on the PeteHatesMusic Facebook page. For NXNE coverage a) “follow PeteHatesMusic on Twitter” and b) “Like PeteHatesMusic on Facebook“. Pretty please!

Eight and a Half @ BLK BOX for NXNE (Copyright: PeteHatesMusic / Martin Bazyl)