Arriving at 8:00, we stood in line illuminated by blue neon as we waited to show proof of vaccination to get into the show. The added time in line was hardly an inconvenience. I’m just happy to see the Bluebird Theater back open after sitting dark for so long during the beginning of the pandemic. The Bluebird Theater is probably my favorite of the East Colfax trinity of theaters that help make up the heart of the Denver music scene, the other two being the Ogden Theater and the Fillmore. At a capacity of only 550, the Bluebird is the smallest of the three theaters. The smaller capacity combined with being laid out in tiers with a balcony overlooking the entire space always provides the feeling of an intimate performance.
Sundays L.A. Witch show at The Bluebird was the band’s last show of the year. 2 months, 2 countries, 30 states, lots of COVID tests and bus chasing had ensued since the tour began. The band felt lucky to have been able to play all 33 shows, but those us who ventured out that night for the show were really the lucky ones.
As the set began it was like rolling up a garage door and letting a mixture of weed, cigarette smoke and passionate energetic Rock and Roll fill Colfax. Maybe knowing that the trio of Ellie English on drums, Irita Pai on bass, and Sade Sanchez on guitars/vocals were from L.A. influenced what I heard in the raw ragged sound that filled the venue. I could hear Punk elements of Exene Cervenka and the band “X”, parts the drugged out Psych-Folk of Strawberry Alarm Clock, and the lo-Fi Blues of an early Doors recording before they became self-obsessed. The bright colored spotlights, smoke machines and backlit sock and buskin sconces visually added to the slightly Psychedelic Rock feel. My favorite songs of the reverb and droning guitar filled set included “Fire Starter,” “True Believers,” and “Baby in Blue Jeans.”
What a great way to finish off 2021. If you missed the show don’t worry L.A Witch will be back out on the road Starting January 14th for the West Coast tour dates with the Tremours supporting all dates. See you in the pit!
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