As they’re simultaneously prepping for the release of their eighth album and celebrating the 40th anniversary of its classic debut “The Days of Wine and Roses“, L.A. rock veterans the Dream Syndicate used their second SXSW showcase to workshop the show they intend to take on tour later this year: a set of recent material and choice cuts from the catalogue, followed by “Days” front to back, with tonight’s show being the first time. The first half was more like a fourth, including reunion-era standouts “Glide” and “Out of My Head,” Medicine Show’s “Like Mary,” and “Where I’ll Stand” – the first single from “Ultraviolet Battle Hymns and True Confessions”. After sharing a memory of sleeping on Jody Denberg’s floor after the Syndicate’s 1982 show in Austin, bandleader Steve Wynn said, “Let’s drop the needle on side one,” and we were off.
Long time setlist perennials “That’s What You Always Say,” When You Smile,” and “Tell Me When It’s Over” got proper readings, of course, but deep cuts like the breathless “Definitely Clean,” the noirish “Until Lately,” and the dreamy “Too Little, Too Late,” sung by surprise guest Vicki Peterson from the Bangles as substitute for the long absent Kendra Smith, provided the deepest pleasures. “I think this album’s a keeper,” Wynn commented dryly, before leading the band through a blazing “The Days of Wine and Roses,” a model album closer on par with The Who’s “Won’t Get Fooled Again” and Blue Öyster Cult’s “Astronomy.” As the final chords faded into the air, Wynn summed up the show for everyone in the sanctuary: “What a freakin’ blast!”
The brand-new album from The Dream Syndicate blends vintage Krautrock, Eno-like ambience, Neu-inspired rhythmic groove and a Californian sun baked sheen into the their classic psychedelic, melodic, hue. The Dream Syndicate have moved well past their early Velvet Underground influences and taken on British glam, German prog, and more.
Featuring singer / songwriter / guitarist Steve Wynn, drummer Dennis Duck, bassist Mark Walton, lead guitarist Jason Victor plus their newest member Chris Cacavas on keyboards, plus guest appearances from Stephen McCarthy (of The Long Ryders) and Marcus Tenney’s expressive sax and trumpet work.
“Atmospheric rock music veering between noise and subtlety— compelling.” Pitchfork
Released June 10th, 2022
The Fat Angel Sings 