Sometimes it is good to hop out of the stream of what you are used to and take for granted. While the Doug Fir Lounge is familiar a venue as a favorite wool sweater, the crowd that gathered on a shockingly cold Saturday was nearly free of leggings, boys wearing girl jeans and the general ennui that plagues so many other shows. Those who braved the frigid temperatures were warmly rewarded.
Maybe you’ve heard of Poi Dog Pondering? Maybe not. Formed nearly a billion years ago (1985) they have had one of the most interesting sonic transitions over the years. When they were kind enough to visit the Doug Fir, the crowd trended older and decidedly more coupled. It was the perfect weekend out for the pioneers of alternative in the 80s and 90s.
The set was skewed a bit heavily on the joyful Cajun-style flavors that kept the crowds smiling and moving. There was a New Order cover and they played a good sampling of near-classic tunes off their 1992 album Volo Volo. Violin, accordian, and trumpets accented the songs that already radiated a friendly warmth all evening long. Even for a fish not used to the water, it was a great show to feel a part of.
