Photos: Destroyer, Devon Williams @ Casbah

I’ve been enjoying Destroyer’s new album, Trouble in Dreams, ever since I downloaded it from eMusic a few months ago. So I was excited to see them play at the Casbah, especially with Devon Williams, a folksy band from LA.

Since there were only two bands, the night started a little later than usual. Devon Williams’ set was plagued with some sound issues, but they played it off with a mixture of quirkiness and humor. At one point Devon introduce the band, adding that his father scolded him at their show last night for not doing so. “But then he said we should all take solos, to which I replied, ‘This isn’t the 60’s, Dad.'” They were incredibly endearing, and their music was pretty solid folk-pop. I was glad to get a chance to see them, and hope that they play in town again soon – maybe at the Beauty Bar?

Devon Williams @ Casbah, shot by Natalie Kardos

Devon Williams @ Casbah, shot by Natalie Kardos

Devon Williams @ Casbah, shot by Natalie Kardos

Devon Williams @ Casbah, shot by Natalie Kardos

Devon Williams @ Casbah, shot by Natalie Kardos

After the set change, Destroyer was up. They ran through a mixture of songs off of their albums, although to be honest, I have a bit of trouble differentiating the songs. Dan Bejar’s voice is the over-arching factor – it’s very characteristic with its scratchy tone and unexpected phrasings. He’s somewhat reminiscent of Bob Dylan in that regard. And he drinks constantly on stage. He didn’t say much to the crowd, just played and sang, but that was enough to keep us happy.

Destroyer @ Casbah, shot by Natalie Kardos

Destroyer @ Casbah, shot by Natalie Kardos

Destroyer @ Casbah, shot by Natalie Kardos

Destroyer @ Casbah, shot by Natalie Kardos