If 2007s The Silent Generation is any indication, the Dimes just might be clairvoyant. For the uninitiated, The Silent Generation is a collection of folky indie pop, based on anecdotes ripped from the headlines of Depression-era papers found underneath guitarist Pierre Johnsons floor. Perhaps they knew something we didnt. If the band was tapping into some sort of historical continuum when they decided to turn those tales of woe into catchy little ditties, they were certainly thinking ahead when they decided to make them sound so damn happy. Through the liberal application of lush vocal harmony, amusingly inventive instrumentation, handclap choruses and a generally sunny demeanor, the Dimes manage to narrate depression without being depressing. In fact, their dreamy folk-pop exudes so much warmth and positivity that its easy to find yourself singing along giddily to tales of street riots, death sentences, and lost opportunity. Not only is this rampant optimism a boon in these trying times, its uplifting power is actually magnified by its juxtaposition. Photo courtesy Mathias Ailstock.
Sat., June 20, 9 p.m., 2009
