ROCK ISLAND - Seedy beatnik pop duo The Ex-Bombers will demonstrate the possibilities of maximum minimalism at Rock Island Brewing Company at 1812 2nd Ave. in Rock Island on August 7 in support of their latest vinyl-only LP on Cavetone Records, "Five Star Night."
Since 2010, the pair have released provocative records and toured around the greater Midwest, bringing a raw cabaret element to live shows and turntables alike. The uniqueness of their sound is exemplified in each sultry rhythm and narcotic melody made by the duo's contrasting vocals, 8-string octaved bass, and tom-less drum set.
In a convergent world fueled by immediate gratifications, The Ex-Bombers have rejected putting music "out there" through digital channels, opting instead for the human connection found in selling records post-live performance and through independent record stores.
Drummer and singer Keri Cousins explained the significance of this particular tour, "For the last five years we've heard about how we need to start doing things in the typical way. We find our way infinitely more gratifying and the more that we do it our way, the more we are welcomed back to cities. This tour is the most recent example."
Many neon nights have transpired since Charleston Illinois' notorious femme fatale and film noir beat released their critically-acclaimed debut LP "The Tightwire" in 2012. The sultry sound of each neon night runs deep between the grooves of "Five Star Night."
Sonically, the album represents both the logical extension of "The Tightwire" as well as its logical departure. "Make no mistake. This is a pop record," said 8-string bassist and vocalist Scott Walus, "However, this particular pop record was created by the seediest of duos, by a femme fatale and a film noir beat."
The band's vinyl-only release represents a radical culmination of some prevailing cultural and economic trends. According to the 2014 RIAA (Recording Industry Association of America) music industry shipment and revenue statistics, only digital streaming revenue and vinyl sales increased from 2013-2014. All other forms of music revenue decreased.
While many listeners have chosen to go the ephemeral route of streaming, a growing minority are choosing the permanence found only in a record collection. Like all Cavetone Records releases, "Five Star Night" has no digital component and can only be heard on a record player.
"This album is really meant to be listened to as a complete piece of art. Each side tells a story in glorious mono," said Cousins. "The live show injects the album with a theatrical feel. It is experiential, intriguing, and wonderfully temporary. It's the perfect compliment to our vinyl."
At this performance they will partner with Gentle Edward Records to performa with Dynoride, Waking Robots, and Condor & Jaybird. Admission is five dollars and music begins at 9 p.m.
