Old Time Relijun at Soundfix Records - October 19, 2007

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Old Time Relijun was the only band I saw twice during CMJ (well, technically the first time wasn't CMJ). I had heard them on their MySpace page, saw the videos posted and knew I was going to do whatever it took to see them. Unfortunately I wasn't able to see them a third time at the Knitting Factory...and I'd love to hear how that show was.

I've always loved Beefheart influenced bands such as the Fall and Magazine, but this was something else altogether. Their songs are intense (check them out!), and watching them, well I'll say it again, check out the videos they have posted on their MySpace page), which will give you an idea (although nothing can compare to seeing them live). While you are at it, check out their touring schedule...chances are good they will be playing within a 150 mile radius of your town (if you are in the States) over the next month. If you are in or near NYC, they'll be playing at a Todd P. show Halloween night...come if you dare!

Old Time Relijun at WFMU free show at Southpaw - October 13, 2007

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I first found Portland, Oregon's Old Time Relijun as I was browsing through k records site, and ended up finding their MySpace page. When I got there, I was welcomed by the opening drumbeats of "Daemon Meeting", I stayed and heard some variety of religious conversion backed by a a psychobilly band channeling Beelzebub. When I saw they were playing a free show at Southpaw in Park Slope, Brooklyn last Saturday night, I knew I needed to do whatever I could to make it there (in reality I was able to walk the 8 blocks...but even if I had had to walk miles I would have done so.)

The band's performance is just as frenetic as their music. I had the feeling that guitarist and front man Arrington De Dionyso (a very appropriate name) was going to either explode or fly right off the stage. I can't quite describe Old Time Relijun, so you'll just have to check out their MySpace page (listen to the music...and please...check out their videos!): http://www.myspace.com/theoldtimerelijun

Old Time Relijun are: Arrington De Dionyso, Aaron Hartman, Benjamin Hartman, Germaine Baca.

You can see Old Time Relijun Tuesday, October 19 at Soundfix Records in Williamsburg, and also the same night at the Knitting Factory (but you better buy tickets now...they are guaranteed to be sold out!)