Free At Noon Flashback: Heron Oblivion melted, shredded, and just absolutely destroyed at World Cafe Live

Heron Oblivion | Photo by Sydney Schaefer for WXPN | sydneyschaeferphotos.com

Heron Oblivion was introduced as an “east coast meets west coast” band during today’s Free At Noon. Ethan Miller (bass) and Noel Von Harmonson (guitar), the west coasters, have been in bands for year both individually and together, most notably Comets On Fire. More recently, they’d gotten together with east coasters Meg Baird (drums, vocals), a Philly local, and Charlie Saufley (guitar). When the four started playing some informal jam sessions, the songwriting process came easily. So easily, in fact, that the self-titled debut from Heron Oblivion, released March 4th on Sub Pop, came as a result.

Heron Oblivion | Photo by Sydney Schaefer for WXPN | sydneyschaeferphotos.com

Today’s set at World Cafe Live was more than a meeting of west and east — it was a violent collision of beauty and brawn. Baird, front and center with her kit and mic, captivated the crowd with beautifully divine vocals (which were oh so fitting when Philly Jesus walked in midway through the set). The braun was provided by the rest of the band. Miller, Von Harmonson and Saufley each plucked at the strings of their instrument with such precise ferocity, creating a sound that is hard to describe. Whatever terms are applicable to masterfully intense guitar and bass work applies to them. They melted, shredded, and just absolutely destroyed in seven lengthy songs for the better part of an hour.

Tonight, Heron Oblivion will play at Boot & Saddle with support from Chris Forsyth & the Solar Motel Band. Tickets and more information on the 21+ show can be found at the XPN Concert Calendar.

SETLIST

1. Beneath Fields
2. Oriar
3. Sudden Lament
4. Jammer
5. Your Hollows
6. Faro
7. Rama