Absence makes the heart grow fonder. After leaving their birthplace for the more metropolitan scope of Minneapolis two autumns ago, Sleeping in the Aviary have seldom returned to Wisconsin's Finer City. But this Friday (tonight), the boisterous quartet will play in support of Icarus Himself's CD release party at the Frequency. The two will alternate song sets in a round-robin fashion after opener Flight sets the stage.
Sleeping in the Aviary have released two standout albums that meld Buzzcocks punk rock with the melodic squalor of southern country. And in a live setting, SitA don't hold anything back. Their unironic heart-on-sleeve presentation amplifies their intimate melodies from the stage to the crowd, invigorating an audience like few of their peers. The more distant SitA become, the more Madison needs to relish their appearances. There are not many bands left that perform at this level.
Icarus Himself jokingly refer to themselves as "Wisconsinwave///midwest-fi" on their MySpace page, but nowadays that's probably pretty accurate. The solo outlet of National Beekeeper's Society's Nick Whetro, the duo's squawky vocals prod along their electronic pulse, synthesizing constant static in an atmospheric storm that pierces your chest. Icarus Himself are in many ways the come-down to National Beekeeper's Society's violent highs. Equal parts soothing and self deprecating, Icarus Himself lull listeners to about as much of a daze as a lightning bolt to the chest will allow.
The 21+ show starts at 10 p.m. and costs $5 at the door.
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