Local Natives/Blind Pilot @ High Noon Saloon, Madison, WI 6/16

I have a tendency to attend shows where I know nothing of the bands performing. This strategy generates a 50% percent success rate, and this show was definitely a success, though not in the general way. Blind Pilot took the stage second and performed a solid set. I discovered them via a flier on a local kiosk, checked out their MySpace, and was hooked with the single "One Red Thread". The band has a bare bones, acoustic-y sound, reminiscent of The Shins, or a more upbeat, less depressing Elliott Smith. The real shocker was the opener, Local Natives. The opener is when you generally grab a couple beers and belly up to the bar, counting the minutes until the opener takes the stage. The Local Natives, however, put on a high-energy show that engaged the interest of every person in the venue, a stark contrast to the low-key nature of Blind Pilot. The Natives played a game of musical chairs with their instruments, switching positions every song, and they all demonstrated proficiency on guitar, keys and percussion. The most beautiful part of their set were the tight vocal harmonies, which evoked blissful feelings in this reporter. Their set concluded in a building, wall of sound song that culminated with members of Blind Pilot joining the stage to lend some percussion and screaming. All in all, both bands were worth the listen, and the twelve dollar cover was well worth it. The Local Natives are based out of LA and Blind Pilot are Portland natives. If either of the bands show up on your radar, clear your night plans and make the trek to the show; you won't be disappointed. Both bands will performing up and down California from June til August; check tour dates and free listens at: www.myspace.com/localnatives and www.myspace.com/goblindpilot As someone who's moving to San Diego in August, I fully look forward to seeing both of these bands as often as possible.