Show Review: Papercuts @ Emos (4/8)

Having been a long-time fan of Jason Quever’s project Papercuts, I’ll say I was a little disappointed in Austin on Tuesday night, as very few people showed up to see some of the great  music the band had to offer up.  Opener Banjo or Freakout also deserve some recognition, as they definitely put me on notice.

Thinking back on it, I’ve known about Banjo or Freakout for some time now, but they were just one of the band’s that slid under the radar for me, not really begging for me to press play.  But, when they unassumingly took to the stage Tuesday night, I’ll admit that I was surprised with what came to fruition upon the small Emos stage. They combined these great melodies amidst these hypnotically driving rhythm sections, drawing you deep into the craft of their song. While some might consider them quiet, they also were able to take things in stride, rising above technical difficulties with a degree of personality and charm that, like their set, won me over. Needless to say, I’ll be listening to Banjo or Freakout a lot more now.

Despite having a small-ish crowd for what he probably deserved, Jason Quever and his band quickly got into the mix, even smiling upon the stage.  His vocals, which he admittedly is not a fan of, sounded so personal and even more powerful than they do on the recorded. Having such a strong back catalogue, Papercuts were able to go back in time, offering up gems like “John Brown” from their second LP.  Still, it was the newer stuff that we all came to see, wondering, hoping, praying, that it would be as magical in person as it is coming from your stereo speakers.

Playing tracks from Fading Parade definitely showed Jason’s strength as a songwriter, as he went through the more melancholic songs such as “I’ll See You Later I Guess” with ease, but still brought a bit of toughness and power to the stage, jerking his guitar back in his hand each time he struck down on a poignant chord.  Even the lighter tracks such as “Do You Really Want to Know” hit home, at least for all those who came to hear the new tunes, not to mention the old ones.  Sure, the band look sort of solemn, but who needs a stage show when you’re getting swept away in the powerful emotions of great craftsmanship?

I left a little bit disappointed for Jason, knowing how personal his music is, and how personal it can be to those who’ve given it the proper amount of time.  But, in the end, I was pleased, as I was fortunate enough to witness one of great songwriters humbly playing to a crowd of enthusiastic fans, all of whom were happy he could stop by.