Ra Ra Riot and Whistle Jacket, undoubtedly being monitored by Homeland Security: Friday, February 8th, 10PM at the Iron Horse

Part of our LEFT OF THE DIAL CONCERT SERIES with WMUA 91.1 FM in Amherst. Between the release of their self-titled debut EP and death of their drummer, 2007 was an eventful year for Syracuse sextet Ra Ra Riot (pictured in lawn chairs) to say the least. But the band is ringing in 2008 with hopes of an equally eventful-- but much more uniformly positive-- new year. Their spirited live shows will surely give them the staying power needed to keep drawing fans. "Like Dexy's Midnight Runners playing REM" - NME. "There is a bit of Arcade Fire in them, but they are also indebted to 'London Calling'-era Clash"-Another lazy rock critic. Their winter tour includes a stop here in Noho with with Whistle Jacket, a lively, clever, and spirited Boston band that sounds like multiple Neil Youngs playing Britpop. With their upbeat tempo and glorious vocal back-ups and harmonies, Whistle Jacket (pictured below...I think) demonstrate why we need to hear more music coming out of basements.