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The Metropolitans embarked on recording their debut some time ago; now the loungey local seven-piece is releasing it, as guitarist and bandleader Seth Dubin says, “to close the era, and start a new one.” He refers to lead singer Elise Smithmyer‘s impending relocation to Washington, D.C., with her husband. “We decided that, since Elise is leaving, it was a good time.”
The seven-song album was recorded at the Bellevue home of Metropolitans drummer Tim College, a Berklee School of Music grad with recording expertise. Listening through is much like catching the band live — many songs, like the anti-war protest “The Letter” and the spunky “Nothing to Say,” are staples of the band’s live act, and recorded with a straightforward, roomy feel.
“Initially, [the goal] was to really capture the ambiance of a live show, because that’s where our energy is,” says Dubin. But with the band’s sprawling lineup, which includes a rhythm section and horns, “It was tough to do that.” The results are natural, not overly polished — much like Smithmyer’s vocals. The Metropolitans was her first time behind the mic, but she proved a unique stage presence and natural talent; Dubin says she’s actively seeking musical opportunities in D.C.
“We’ve heard a lot of girls and there have been a few who’ve stuck out” in auditions, says Dubin, but they’re taking their time enlisting a new singer. The band will likely perform a few more times with Smithmyer this summer, but the best bet is the CD-release show, this Fri., June 5, at Club Café. The show starts at 7 p.m. and costs $5 (CDs will be available for $5.) For more info, visit www.themetropolitans.com.
Also releasing a new album this week — at a show you’d be lucky to squeeze into — are Pittsburgh’s punk stalwarts Anti-Flag. Fresh off 2008’s expansive, Tony Visconti-produced album The Bright Lights of America, the band has set aside the glockenspiels in favor of corrosive guitar hooks for The People or the Gun, its brand-new release on Side One Dummy records.
The band’s topical, political focus remains front and center in “Sodom, Gomorrah, Washington D.C.” and other tracks. The lyrics, “I’ve seen a lot of rip-offs in my life / seen a lot of scams a lot of crooks and crooked schemes,” kicks off the gloriously Clashy song “The Economy Is Suffering … Let It Die.”
Anti-Flag’s local release show is at the Smiling Moose on Tue., June 9, with guests American Armada and The Catastrophe; the $10 ticket includes a free CD. The all-ages show appears to be sold out, but that’s never stopped a truly motivated music fan — so good luck to all. For more info, visit www.anti-flag.com.
This article appears in Jun 4-10, 2009.
That’s our daughter, Elise!
I knew as a toddler she would have the right stuff for the stage. An awesome singer as a young child, she delighted our ears and touched hearts.
Most importantly, she has deep sensitivity and kindness within. Her character is honest, generous and encouraging. Her talents go beyond vocals and stage presence to supporting life in her “day job” as an RN, aspiring to the Masters level. We are so proud of Elise, this amazing young woman we will always call our own!!
Love, Mom and Dad