From Gloom To Gloam

Hell hath no fury like a reviewer in a vacant Glaumbar. Scant attendees appeared to be a cross-section of band members, friends of band or staff, and a handful of UK rockers who took one look at the near-empty room and promptly left. The trendy “boatmosphere” of Glaumbar could appeal most weeknights, but the Airwaves death knell threatened to toll long before the headliners took the stage.

Endless Dark was Dashboard Confessional crossed with Nelson (not in a good way), was Backstreet Boys crossed with Our Lady Peace (and lacking all awesome). Their third song slightly redeemed a descent into my own endless dark, with supporting femme vocals and harmonies reminiscent of Blind Melon’s Mouthful of Cavities. Ultimately forgettable Endless Dark did little to leave a mark with a 20-minute set, though for once in the land of Airwaves, I was thankful for brevity.

The wholly listenable amalgam of Pétur Ben & Eberg brought viscous rock with shades of Tool’s best opening their set. PB&E exposed a vein for the audience’s sustenance. A mid-set ballad suitably slowed down the vibe and provided opportunity for sweet falsetto harmony. Their stylistic range guarantees PB&E as a pleasurable pick for any future concert.

With adequate change-over times, it’s curious that the lackadaisical Glaumbar offered delays with the start of all final three acts. Still, Lights on the Highway made up for the wait with a slick final performance. For a crowded bar, Lights wandered through their pretty rock á la Alice in Chains. Mellow and brooding, Lights on the Highway provided a welcome finale to the gloom of Glaumbar.