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A substantial number of us went to see NRBQ and Bill Kirchen at the Birchmere last night. The Bandstand was as packed as I've ever seen it. And NRBQ (and perhaps the positive review in the Post) brought out a lot of fans.
Bill Kirchen & Too Much Fun was a trip as always. It was particularly fun to watch Tom and Donna try and keep up with a blazing version of Bill's 'Hot Rod Lincoln'. All too soon Bill's set was done and NRBQ was up, though he did get called back for an encore.
What can I say about NRBQ. They are an odd band. The music is a broad variety of roots based music and even included an acapella tune. And they don't take themselves too seriously. And they do quite a bit of unique stuff and some interesting covers.
Reading the above, I would be inclined to enjoy them. But it really didn't fly with me. For every interesting solo there was one that was grating. The lyrics were almost intelligable and bass mix exceedingly heavy. It seemed every other song was enjoyable, but the others didn't appeal. For a quirky roots band, I would be more inclined to go with the Mollys or Brave Combo.
That said, I won't say that you shouldn't go see them. This is the kind of band that stirs drasticly different reactions from folks of similar musica; tastes. I heard reactions from 'there is nothing here that appeals' to 'These guys are great!' My best advice is to listen (live, on CD, or perhaps on the net) and decide for yourself.
Am I disappointed I went? No. Would I go see them again? Probably not.