Why Is My Mind Consumed By Powerspace?

Shortly after moving to Chicago in August 2008, I was treated to a concert at the Metro. The headlining band was Cute Is What We Aim For (of whom I had never heard), and the opening acts were Danger Radio, Ace Enders and Powerspace. I had actually never heard of any of these bands, so had no idea of the excitement that would ensue in the hours to come. While I'm not reviewing that show, I will mention that I have almost but forgotten the headliners, and have fallen for the talents behind Ace Enders and Danger Radio, and the mystique that is Powerspace.

Signed by Fueled By Ramen, almost entirely from Illinois (minus drummer Kevin Kane, who hails from Ohio), and almost too smart for their own good, Powerspace has weaseled their way into my mind. I did not want to like this band. During their performance in August, I was impressed by their passion and drive toward a strong performance (though the lead vocals were pitchy at times). All of the members bring an identifiably raw energy to the stage as an extreme compliment to tremendous instrumental talents. Just watch guitarist Tom Schleiter shred this solo. I mean...fuck. Not only is this guy a smart musician but there is talent on the other side of the board as well, as all of their demos were produced by him.



Also, I never noticed a drummer walk onto the stage, but my jaw dropped the moment the first beat fell. Kevin Kane commands the drums with such ease that one would be hard pressed to believe he sleeps behind that throne.


Perhaps I didn't want to like Powerspace simply because I was jealous. I've listened closely to many of their songs from The Kicks of Passion, trying to scrutinize elements of songwriting and production - but have fallen trap to admiration instead. I must admit that I am now anxiously awaiting a leak or even some sort of tease from their second studio album on which they are hard at work with Jonny K.

Maybe the Chicago music scene has created a fan girl out of me. Maybe a new interest in songwriting has led me to follow what those in my age group have already achieved.
Maybe I should just shut up and enjoy my new love of power pop.

Maybe I'll find myself at their show at Double Door on May 29.