Something Like Sound

Music can be one of the truest forms of self-expression. A prolific songwriter has the ability to convey thoughts and emotions through song. Love, compassion, hope and healing were just a few of the driving factors that led Daniel Smith to begin his musical experiment known as Danielson. Smith, whose strong Christian roots and incredible personal story act as the backdrop for his songs, performed a stunning set at the Hi-Dive last Saturday.

The Hi-Dive has really started to grow on me. After seeing Ra Ra Riot there several weeks ago, I’ve begun to appreciate the cozy atmosphere, free water and excellent sound mixing. The entire night felt like a comfortable gathering of old friends. Ian Cooke, a Denver cellist and songwriter, started the evening with an amazing set. Not only was his instrumental performance nearly flawless, but his smooth voice hit every note. Cooke used a variety of looping effects to create multiple harmonies with himself, a real treat for the ears. At the end of his set, the crowd called for more songs and he extended his set, something I have never seen happen with an opening act.

Up next was Cryptacize, an indie-pop band from the Asthmatic Kitty record label. Their simple sound and comically small instruments made for a good show. Catchy hooks and flowing guitar riffs kept the music upbeat.

Finally, it was time for Danielson. Taking the stage in matching pilot’s uniforms, the seven members of Danielson filled the tiny stage at the Hi-Dive. “This song is a clap-along,” said Daniel Smith on multiple occasions throughout the show. In fact, there were clap-alongs, snap-alongs and sing-alongs; all of which got the audience involved and made the set enjoyable. Rather than trying to decode Smith’s religious undertones and unique falsetto, I sat back and enjoyed the show. To celebrate the release of the group’s recently released retrospective album, Danielson focused on playing their best material from the last ten years.

Playing through songs such as “Idiot Boksen” and “Flip Flop Flim Flam,” Smith and company performed with intensity and sincerity. Danielson ended their set with “Five Stars and Two Thumbs Up” before performing two more songs as an encore (including “Did I Step On Your Trumpet,” one of my personal favorite Danielson tunes). For their performance, I give Danielson’s Denver tour stop five stars and two thumbs up.

Edit: Full bootlegs of this concert are avaiable at http://www.theflatresponse.com

Video from the show: Idiot Boksen