If my review of the show two nights ago sounded like I was almost gleefully happy to be a musical grouch, I wasn't. I had high expectations of both bands, and they weren't met. As before, Mogwai would have blown me away if they'd been concise. I was completely psyched to see Trail of Dead...and...well, I dunno...just very disappointing.

But, in the spirit of trying to emphasize what's unconditionally good, I collected all the tunes I have by my brilliant friends Prosolar Mechanics of New Jersey. Holy christ...it's been mental around here all weekend. I've just completely lost it with this band. They completely own me. It's been a while since I really had a session with their music; I've spent so much time with them and they with me that I think sometimes we forget to actually listen to each other's music. It's been like rediscovering the finest friend you ever had. It's gnarly, heavy, light, atmospheric, full of excellent but never obvious or cheesy hooks, some very intricate and often surprising guitar parts, Amy's beautiful voice with those harmonies that kill me still. I'm so happy to have them as friends and their band in my life. Go visit them, download some music and give them some encouragement through a transitional time.

If any label honchos are reading this, you really need to take the time to listen to this band. Yes, they're friends, but I think I've made it pretty clear about what I dig and what I don't and why, and how bullshit doesn't fly in my house, and these guys are the real thing.