The Useless Critic 2.0

You guys, Viva Phoenix this year. Let's talk about it. There was honestly too much for me to do to hone in on the several bands I wanted to see (Bogan Via, Pure Bathing Culture, Temples among other). So I concentrated on the crown jewels for me - GIRL TALK and UFFIE. If you have been reading the UC for many years, you will know I was obsessed with Uffie in 2010 - 2011. You will realize the circle has then become full.  I saw the Mowglis and Mystikal, too. I've seen the former before, and they are fun, but the audio quality was terrible. So terrible I ended up wandering out halfway through. Weirdly enough as well, I saw The Maine? Not my cup of tea, but they played a good show. I will give them an A for keeping their audience engaged.  GIRL TALK was on another level. I don't know where he has been for the past several years, but he hasn't changed at all. Even now that the DJ has become a mainstream staple of pop music; Greg Gillis was everything I've heard and ...

Last night, I saw The Mowgli's live in Tempe with the company of Canadian singer-songwriter Lights (whom I've never really liked that much until last night - she was pretty good!), and K.Flay, an up-and-coming alternative artist who deserves your attention. I've actually NOT listened to The Mowgli's prior to last night. A few times in passing, but nothing to leave a mark. My friend told me seeing them live was akin to witnessing "Sesame Street on crack." Well, okay. That's a glowing review. So I expected the musical equivalent of Fruity Pebbles, more or less.* Actually, The Mowgli's were quite good! A little saccharine at times, but all in all - a night of much-needed positivity. They had a good chemistry on stage and some sweet harmonies. I am a fool for harmonies. I enjoyed "San Francisco" the most. Hear it below; it's a pretty carefree, almost jangle-pop-style tune. As for Lights, for being sick ("bus plague"), she...