

They shredded through favorites like “Warm Slime” “I Was Denied” and “Tidal Wave” as well as “Lupine Dominus” from recent release Putrifiers II, bouncing along with the crowd every beat of the way.

It was hard to get close enough to the stage to actually see anything that was going on, but I could hear just fine – crashing drums, crushing guitar distortion, and John Dwyer’s characteristic yelping. Thee Oh Sees had already started by the time I arrived, just after 8pm. The sound wasn’t bad, but the setting was far from intimate (which would be the advantage of having gone to Death by Audio), much more reminiscent of a festival or large SXSW showcase than a punk rock show. The stage was huge, framed between the brick walls of surrounding industrial buildings, with an expanse of dust and gravel for show-goers to kick around below. But I was totally underwhelmed by the interior of the space, which basically looked like someone was storing their fully-stocked bar in an empty garage.

Going into it, I was excited to check out the venue, which boasts and incredible beer selection as well as gourmet eats. Given the chance to choose between these shows, I’d say the show at The Well was least preferable. Those in the NYC area had multiple chances to do so this weekend – both bands played brand new Bushwick venue The Well on Saturday, Death by Audio on Monday, and Thee Oh Sees played ATP I’ll Be Your Mirror on Sunday. It’s not mere hype the energy and skill which these musicians and long-time friends bring to any stage is a real thing, and best seen to be believed. There’s not a whole lot left to say about the caliber of Thee Oh Sees’ or Ty Segall’s live shows both acts are known in many circles for providing one of the best live experiences the price of a concert ticket can buy.
