Being one of only a handful of live dates after a period of inactivity, Centro-matic’s crowded show at the Mohawk on Friday night was geared to be a special performance. I hadn’t seen Centro-matic in years, and the prospect of the show had me reminiscing memories from around the time I moved to Austin in 2001. As eccentric band leader Will Johnson ripped into the first chord of Centro-matic’s first song, pangs of nostalgia shot through my body and split my face in half with a wide grin.
Johnson and his band proceded to rock out, sounding incredibly tight and polished. I guess this is the unavoidable result of making music your life and working together as a band for almost two decades. Not familiar enough with the band’s more recent discography, I couldn’t tell if any of the songs were material from the album the band purported has begun or will begin to work on very soon. What’s for sure is the palpable elation that surged through the crowd when Johnson tore into fan favorite “Calling Thermatico” from 2006’s Fort Recovery. The songs definitely claimed its spot as the set’s high point.
Before Centro-matic performed their outstanding set, up-and-comers Frank Smith performed a solid set of their own. The band has always tended toward a country rock sound, but indications are that their upcoming album will eschew some of that twang and opt for a more streamlined approach. On Friday, at the Mohawk, Frank Smith proved as powerful and rocking as they ever have, ensuring that this band will continue to garner praise and gain notoriety. Previously, stalwart Austin rock outfit Moonlight Towers opened the night, performing a show for the first time in what seems like a long while. Although, I did hear a rumor that the band expect to beging to play out more often.
With such a strong lineup, it’s hard to believe that the night wasn’t over when show on the outside stage came to a close. Electronic loops wonder Roger Sellers had already performed inside, swaying and dancing, clad in large headphones, and Love Inks was a few songs into their set when Centro-matic concluded. The aftershow is becoming increasingly popular in Austin, but it’s always difficult to predict exactly what the reception and turnout will be. Thanks to Friday night and a strong bill, the house stayed packed. Love Inks continue to get great gigs and grow in the Austin scene. We’re big fans of the band who recently played at the No Play Music and Pop Press International sponsored New Years Eve show.
Onuinu closed the night with a great set by Dorian Duvall. I caught Onuinu opening for YACHT a few months ago and was surprised to find a full band. On Friday, Duvall came alone, but sounded no less full. Sometimes a modestly sized room is just what a show needs. Crowded but not packed, the room was permeated by the Duvall’s forceful bass and upbeat songs. With these six great bands all improbably playing on the same night, the Mohawk was the place to be on Friday.
All photos below © Bryan Parker & Pop Press International. Click any image to open gallery in slideshow view.
