Middle Distance Runner @ Jammin Java 1/28/08

Monday was Pasta Primavera's first visit to Vienna, VA's Jammin Java. Located in a strip mall in between an Outback and a supermarket, Jammin Java doesn't look like your typical indie rock venue. I guess that's what makes this place so good. They had a superb sound system, a cafe, a bar, and most importantly Middle Distance Runner playing. Opening up for MDR was Ungdomskulen. I'm not sure what Norwegian punk rock sounds like, but if it sounds like Ungdomskulen, then I love Norwegian punk rock. Clearly stating they came to rock, Ungdomskulen blazed through an energy filled set complete with the soon to be Norwegian national anthem, Spartacus.
But the reason I was there was Middle Distance Runner. Having seen them late last year, I was in dire need for more more MORE! In my previous post found here you can hear me rant on about how Erik Dean is the greatest drummer in the world. Well that's a fact, still. I came away with something different from this show. Stephen Kilroy (Vonnegut fans eat your heart out!) sings with determination and emotion, but more evident from this performance was the injection of soul he has flowing through him. Channeling Otis Redding, Stephen belts out vocals that make you smile for no good reason one second, and then tear up the next. This is a band that must be seen and heard and then seen again. Speaking with the band members, many of them feared sounding rusty, but there was no rust. All I saw and heard was bright, shiny, and flat out rockin' indie music. They're off of touring for a while to start recording new material (yes!), but look out for them to play a couple of shows in the area.

mp3: Middle Distance Runner - Monochrome Boys --> website --> buy
mp3: Middle Distance Runner - Top Of The Stairs
mp3: Ungdomskulen - Ordinary Son --> website
mp3: Ungdomskulen - Modern Drummer

Middle Distance RunnerUngdomskulenMore photos here.