DCs Alt-Rock Vanguards

Photo by James Burger

Do you remember the days when you had to wait for your favorite band’s new album to hit the store shelves before you could listen to it? It was of course, like all good things, worth the wait. The months leading up to that moment you got your hands on it only built up the excitement, anticipation, and resulting satisfaction. Now, we find ourselves in a decade characterized by instant communication and immediate gratification where music has become a different type of commodity. Consequently, our relationship with music—how we see it, and how we consume it—has changed dramatically. It was clear long ago that bands, fans, audiences and venues alike must all evolve.

Gist, a three-piece rock band from Arlington, VA, has been performing for the last 10 years and has weathered the changing musical landscape. They have witnessed the metamorphosis of the DC music scene, which has changed greatly from when they first began performing back in the 90’s and found their modern relevancy. Together, this triumvirate consisting of Nayan Bhula (guitar and vocals); Fred Burton (drums and percussion); and Finley Martin (bass) are keeping DC’s alt-rock traditions alive and well today.

The band’s performance earlier this week at The Black Cat was nothing short of awe inspiring. The show highlighted an undeniable confidence in their performance style and reaffirmed their place as a staple in the DC music scene. [This is a not-so-secret pun, check out their record label Red Stapler Records.]

Gist’s set was varied, entertaining and insightful. The songs showcased the band’s ability to master a wide variety of crazy tempos, time signatures and keys without missing a beat. They opened with a new track called “Run,” in which the band quickly set off with the audience in tow. Nayan’s vocals, reminiscent of a low growling, backed by Finley’s steady bass chords seemed to fill every inch of the room. Another highlight of the evening was “Hold On” off of their last album, “Conversations, Expectations.” The song was a treat—featuring catchy hooks and melodies only to be enhanced by Fred’s freefalling drumbeats. Listeners in the audience couldn’t help but channel their inner rock star. If you aren’t convinced by now of this band’s talent, then their performance of “Rock N’ Roll Ruined My Life” would leave you speechless. All three band members rose to new heights in this song inspired by a quote from a friend. The song resonated as a passionate ode to the one you hate, but desperately love—it doesn’t get any better than this!

The band is looking forward to working on a new album in 2010 and will have a few local shows coming up throughout the year. If the new songs the band performed at this show are any indication, the future album will be a must-have—definitely worth the wait. Lucky for us, you don’t have to wait too long for their next show however. Gist returns to the stage at The Red and The Black on April 23. If you haven’t gotten the Gist by now, check out www.myspace.com/gist for more details.