The Silversun Pickups have been called many things: the next Smashing Pumpkins, LA garage rockers, the leaders of a neo-grunge rock movement, etc – whatever tag you give them, know this: these Silver Lake dwellers rock really, really hard. Matt Pinfield, the famous rock savant, came out and introduced them as one of his favorite new bands, and when the group finally came out, they didn’t waste any time in getting down to business.
They launched into a slew of hits from their first album Carnavas, and also dug into a few choice cuts from their new album, Swoon. What’s refreshing to observe when you see the Pickups play is their absolute dedication to the music. Lead singer, Brian Aubert sings just as hard as he plays his guitar, bassist Nikki looks absolutely adorable but is a complete beast with her stringed weapon, and keyboardist Joe Lester looks like a dedicated sonic scientist with his head bent down in complete concentration as he manipulates the keys. But it’s the drummer Christopher Guanlao who stole the show at All Points West this past Sunday evening. He wielded the drum sticks like he had a vendetta, and his long black hair flew through the muggy Jersey air like arrows from a deadly samurai’s bow.
By the time they finally launched into their latest hit, “Panic Switch” from their well-received sophomore album, the crowd was fully oiled and completely in-tune with the Pickups’ sound. It’s always great to see one of your favorite bands play live, but when you see them work so hard for their dedicated fans, it’s a whole new level of respect.
Words by Geo Hagan, Photographs by Kwaku Kufour
