STS9
Showbox, Seattle, WA
01.23.16
The Showbox Sodo began to fill with an eccentric collection of fans anticipating the space-age musical journey that STS9 would take them on this Saturday night. There were unicorn onesies, carefully frayed dreadlocks, colorful tank tops, and the shiniest clothing this side of the Missouri river. As the crowd filed in, they immediately began warming up by displaying their dancing abilities or, observing one fan, stretching. Electronic music mixed with live instruments is carving quite the niche into mainstream music, with bands such as Odesza, Big Gigantic, and the Floozies making splashes.
When the lights went down and the music began, I knew I would be in for quite the sensory experience. Opening with “Scheme: Reprise”, STS9 showed their musical chemistry with this melodic journey of funk grooves and jazz riffs, combined with space age beats, all of which led to an immediate dance party. The band member who really caught my attention was bassist Alana Rocklin, who opened “The Rabble” with a two and half bass riff that would make Bootsy Collins take notice. Along with their galactic electronica, they also have one hell of a lighting setup, with moving strobes, colored gobos, all delivering multiple effects that add to the space age ambiance.
Their set drawing on, songs began to meld together. Unable to determine where one song began and others ended, the tone began to feel almost monotonous. However, if you are looking to dance yourself clean until the wee morning hours, I would most certainly point you in the direction of the Space Shuttle STS9.
Review and photos by Phillip Johnson
STS9
