Ted Leo Gives Solo Performance Tonight at Emo’s
Ted Leo was playing in post-hardcore punk bands like Citizen’s Arrest, Animal Crackers and writing music for Chisel in the late 80s before evolving in a different direction. Leo has not lost the punk aesthetic. It’s just that he’s got an ear for more melodic turns, happily delivered with the same enthusiasm and driving energy from his early days.
Ted Leo and The Pharmacists (his band) has released its fifth album, Living With the Living, more energetic and melodic than ever while infused with R&B, funk and soul. At the same time, Leo remains true to his roots. He doesn’t abandon his viewpoints; they’re simply delivered in a slightly different way.
And now for something that perhaps isn’t completely different, but different nonetheless: Ted Leo will be doing a solo show, sans band, as part of the Chaos In Tejas Fest this week. Leo’s performance is tonight at Emo’s indoor venue, 603 Red River. Starting the show are Ghost Knife, and Fingaar Bangaar featuring members of Those Peabodys. Following Leo is Extra Golden. Doors open at 9 p.m.
“I hope this doesn’t cause anyone too much disappointment, but this show was always meant to be a wee little solo event amid a big bad hardcore fest,” says Leo about his upcoming performance. “The only problem about that for me is that, apparently, I’ll be playing Emo’s inside against the Cro Mags at Emo’s outside. And I would have liked to see the Cro Mags one more time. It’s been literally 20 years since I last saw them at The Anthrax in Norwalk, Ct., and that was with Harley singing. I think it’s probably been since 1986 or 87 that I’ve seen them with John Joseph. Hmph…”
But don’t go in assuming Leo’s show will be mellow. Just because the band isn’t there doesn’t mean the energy won’t be, either. Recommended. Check this link for other Chaos In Tejas Fest schedules.
