Originally printed in and posted at LA Weekly on July 22, 2010:
How Gangi remains Glendale’s little secret is a mystery unto itself. Led by reformed folkie Matt Gangi, whose reedy voice evokes a helium-toned David Byrne, the group specializes in psychedelic jangle accompanied by atmospheric haze and bright melody. A 2008 album, called A, drew comparisons to Neil Young on a more experimental bent — fair enough, but it’s not hard to imagine this group as the more mellow appetizer to a full-course serving of Animal Collective. Lucky Dragons also bears some similarities to that tripped-out Brooklyn ensemble. Members Luke Fischbeck and Sarah Rara create constantly mutating audio forms using a distinct combination of acoustic instruments and home-wired electronics. They also typically solicit a great deal of audience participation, so be prepared to shake a bean pod for the betterment of the room. Last but hardly least is Swahili Blonde, the recently launched project of former WEAVE! member Nicole Turley which finds Red Hot Chili Pepper John Frusciante on guitar and Duran Duran’s John Taylor on bass, with other instrumental support from members of Warpaint, Corridor and the Like. (Chris Martins)