When a band reunites, more times than not it seems like a clear money grab, but with Massachusetts rockers Dinosaur Jr., it never seemed contrived or intended for a quick payout. Since returning in 2009, the trio has produced consistently solid records that both evolve on their signature sound, as well as reminding people what drew them to the band in the first place.
Last Wednesday the band stopped at Tipitina's Uptown for a show on their current tour promoting their latest release, Give a Glimpse of What Yer Not, and the capacity crowd seemed to eat it up.
Starting the set a bit later than the 10 p.m. start time, and after a criminally short set by opener Elisa Ambrogio, Dinosaur Jr. was ready to rock and make a ton of noise, which they did in spades. In fact, it was one of the loudest shows I’ve attended in quite a while. Singer and guitarist J. Mascis seemed in good spirits throughout, choosing to focus on the presentation of some classic cuts instead of regaling the audience with an overabundance of chit chat. Drummer Murph and bassist Lou Barlow did their due diligence to provide a solid rhythm section for Mascis. When you combine all three of those elements, what you get is a band that has arguably produced better albums since reforming than they did in their 90’s heyday.
All around, the trio killed it, which isn’t super difficult when you toss about great songs like “Start Choppin” and new fan favorite “Watch the Corners.” Who knows when they’ll be back around these parts? But judging by the crowd last night, I think it’s safe to assume they’d be welcomed back with just as much energy as was exhibited last night.
