The Locals: May 15th at Martyrs

I had the great opportunity to see The Locals in their first headlining spot at Martyrs on Friday night. This trio is a high-energy, indie rock, guitar-heavy band that I’ve been looking forward to meeting for weeks and weeks. And, my darling readers, I was not disappointed! Taking the stage after four other bands, The Locals completely wowed the crowd. And yes, they do have their local following here in Chicago. With two women as sexy as Yvonne Doll and Christy Nunes out in front, you know that I was entranced! I wasn’t the only one, a throng of women (and some men) in the audience cheered, heckled (SEXY!!! from one in particular) and sang along through their 40 minute set.

Doll’s vocals are a perfect combination of lady-like melody and gutsy, throaty rock-n-roll angst. She worked her guitar hard that night, taking a wide stance and giving us lots of reverb (you all know how much I love that!). Nunes on bass was a thrill to watch. It’s been a damn long time since I’ve seen a bass player really move and it wasn’t just the way her hair whipped across her face. This bass player knew how to work it, how to provide not just a foundation for a song but a counter melody when needed as well. The Local’s music is bad-girl gritty through and through.

Big Picture is a 10-track powerhouse of songs full of solid musicianship and some great hooks. Opening with “Bending in the Wind,” we’re lulled into a false security, expecting a record full of ballads. It’s a fine lead up to what I feel is the best song on the album, the title track Big Picture where Doll unveils her vocal range beautifully. “Ohio” is another song that was just stunning live; it’s one of those that you hear twice and feel like you’ve been listening to it for years. It’s their fourth album and I’ve had it on heavy rotation here at Chez Tart.  Go to their MySpace to purchase it.

They’ve been recording a new album; I’ll let you know as soon as I get it. And seeing as my little wifey was way into this band, I promise you you’ll be hearing more about them here!

The Locals will play at Art Fair on the Square in Madison, WI on June 11. Go catch this band!
photo credit: Ryan Bakerink