The Whimbrels/Oof!/Loveletter @ Mama Tried, Brooklyn, NY 10/5/24

I thought I'd check up with my previous roommate Dennie's band Loveletter. I had witnessed them with their current lineup but I think not since their recordings with Martin Bisi came out. They've got an air of confidence that only time together can produce. Oof! were "Oofing" their brand of no-wave tag teaming vocals and sax. Somehow, I didn't realize all the Branca ties the Whimbrels had or that Matt Hunter was the leader of this band. I had heard that Norm Westberg was now an added guitar in the lineup but when I saw him earlier in the day I thought he was just casually there to see Dennie's band. Those 'oh yeah' moments hit you in life.

Despite a beautiful day, the show got moved inside to the bar area. Apparently there is a single malcontent complaining about the occasional afternoon 3 band bill of loud rock bands outside. In light of what is now being known as being "Saint Vitused" where a single neighbor can bring down a long established music venue with incessant complaining (as happened with that decade plus metal venue in Greenpoint). Too bad, it was a perfect area for a casual hangout. We shall see if Mama Tried can ultimately get licensed for this.

For further review: Oof! @ Mama Tried 8/29/24