Live Review: Molly Burch @ DC9, 4/14/17

Intrepid mysterious Special Guest Star The Paper went in search of good live sounds, and the following is what transpired when he took in Molly Burch at DC9.

Molly Burch was a sorely welcomed change of pace for me that I didn't realize I needed. 

I would imagine the same for others judging solely by the more than hour-long battle I fought against Friday DC traffic. 

Her fingers brushed over the guitar strings idly, like one with not a care in the world. When she sang into the mic, her voice compelled time to slow. The hustle and bustle outside ceased to exist. In its place was a forlorn tranquility. Molly's singing conveyed the weight and reach of a past she can't escape. In fact, she appeared to be sitting in bed alone talking to her diary. And it was at this juncture that I realized the beauty of her voice. It possesses will. While her past may always manifest in the present, her singing helps her to take control in shaping her destiny.

The band contributed further to the longing atmosphere, mirroring her leisurely pace as if it was a sweltering summer night. The moody bassline and unhurried drums conjured images of wide hips swaying in long, flowing skirts and the drop of water clinging to the mouth of a tall, icy glass of lemonade. Even at its most agitated, the lead guitar imparted an air of politeness. Indeed, the band played second fiddle to Molly's voice. It almost felt like a concerto for her voice and band, especially on the song where she went without her guitar.

Now that it's another new week, I ache to return to Friday, where Molly's timeless voice offered a quiet refuge of a simpler time and place.






[words and photos of Molly Burch by The Paper]

[posted 4.20.17]