Review: Idaho Returns And Milly Arrives At The Troubadour
PAST THE NIGHTLIFE AND NEON LIGHTS- on the edge of the Strip sits The Troubadour, a bastion for singer/songwriters and authenticity. The pictures on the wall and the venue’s history make clear: this is a space for performers who have deep love of their craft and those who come to appreciate it. The excitement was palpable as both Idaho and Milly were celebrating milestones: Idaho, playing an LA show for the first time in 22 years; and MILLY, commemorating the release of their new record, Your Own Becoming.
Idaho kicked things off with a set like the dead of winter. In contrast to the scorching Southern California summer day, Idaho gave off a chilly yet emotive presence. The setlist split the difference between new and early recordings, including their first single, “Skyscrape.”
Lead singer and songwriter, Jeff Martin, was supported by new additions to the lineup like Robert Fronzo, on a 30-year-old four-string guitar (one of the band’s trademarks), and original live, touring drummer, Jeff Zemitti. They utilized an innovative sonic palette including creating feedback against an amp from the four-string to alter the mix. The audience clearly felt love, including a father and son who flew from Atlanta; some of the crowd had attended the band’s last Troubador show in ’96. Even with their angsty ballads, the energy between fans and performers was warm.
Milly took the stage next. They launched into an explosive, energetic set with hard-hitting 90s punk-inspired riffs and fuzz. The synergy with their opener was clear as frontman, Brendan Dyer, shouted out Idaho as one of their favorite bands. Their songs incorporate slowcore and shoegaze along with other genres from the same umbrella.
Milly’s set was an accurate reflection of their latest record: direct and urgent. Dyer stood in the center clad in a flannel, he thrashed around his guitar as the arrangement behind him built to a crescendo. The band played like it was their last night on Earth. Milly brought these new tracks to life, armed with nothing but guitars and heart.
Some of the fans present were around during slowcore's rise in the 90s and have families now, which they brought them to the show. Throughout the night, this feeling of community made the gap between fans and performers seem small. Underneath the sad songs, is a positive scene.
A winning night all around with Idaho continuing their legacy and ushering in a new era of sonic descendants, Milly.
