You know that feeling when you're nearing the end of a really good book and you get a little mournful because you're not ready to part company with the characters? I had that feeling in a big way on Saturday night, but it wasn't because of a book. It was because of The Books.
The Books are guitarist Nick Zammuto and cellist Paul De Jong, whose concert at The Gig Music Hall was a major highlight of this year's outstanding Open Ears Festival. It was a dazzling multimedia performance in which big-screen video projections didn't distract from the music (as is so often the case when bands use video in their stage shows), but instead complemented and enhanced the beautifully off-kilter compositions. Music and video danced together in a feast for the eyes and ears.
I found myself getting a little teary by the end of the show, since I figured I may never see The Books live again. Apparently the Open Ears gig was their first live performance in ages, and it seems unlikely they'll tour this way again. However, they did seem genuinely bowled over by the two boisterous standing ovations they received, so perhaps they'll consider a repeat performance at Open Ears 2011. Here's hoping.
Below is one of their videos, which is spliced together from home movie footage of Zammuto's childhood. If the music and images don't bring a smile to your face, you have facial paralysis and should consult a physician.
Oh yes, The Books were great! And I think that "Classy Penguin" was the highlight.
Posted by: Muffy St. Bernard | May 04, 2009 at 09:49 AM