all words and photos by Dakota

…

I got to know the New Rock Church Of Fire guys pretty well last weekend camping in West Virginia. Highlights more or less revolved around the campfire, what with the remnants of Mitchell’s guitar going up in flames and Tre throwing a cooler into the fire after a long night of whiskey. Mitchell also roasted a whole chicken on a stick, which we all ate, even though it kinda fell on the fire/the ground. Hey, it’s camping.

Somewhere along the way Mitchell told me about their show on Thursday night at the State Theatre opening up for Middle Distance Runner. I was skeptical at first when he told me they were playing the State Theater, but when he told me that they would be coming out on stage as mummies, I couldn’t resist coming to witness the fitness.

The New Rock guys played to a mostly empty house I’m afraid. Honestly, I was kinda shocked by the showing at the State Theater. I’ve been there once before for Broken Social Scene, the place was pretty much jammed, and it was a great place to watch a packed show. Something about Falls Church though is I think just a bit too far for most residents of the District unfortunately. Or maybe it’s just the fact that the last metro leaves from East Falls Church at 11.35 on a Thursday night, ouch.

Anyways, the guys played their hearts out. And chucked their cardboard model pyramids on drummer Tre at the end of their set, which was a nice touch, I think he approved.

This was also, I’m pretty sure, my first time seeing Middle Distance Runner. These guys are definitely worth keeping an eye on. Locally grown, MDR is an impressive five piece band, and come off as being well thoughtfully put together.

Looking forward to more performances from both of these bands in a different setting. Although I’d say the State Theater is a beautiful venue, they seem to stock their calendar with tons of cover bands (seriously!) which is kind of a shame. Nevertheless, I always love a band that puts on a show, NRCOF both times I’ve seen them now, love to please.

Enjoy photos of MDR:

Take no prisoners.