Friday night I had the chance to check out Pontiak open for Californian instrumental psychedelic rockers, Earthless, at the Borderline.
The trio, consists of three brothers from the rural hills of Virginia – they deliver a clearly southern influenced approach to stoner rock. This show was a part of their first European tour, coming hot of the heels of their second album, ‘Maker’.
When the 3 bearded brothers approached the stage talking about South Park in faded tee’s, and baseball caps, I quickly jumped to conclusions – assuming I knew what I was in for. However, they quickly proved me wrong as they jumped straight into their set opening with Laywayed.
Their unusual, acoustically warped elemental rock, was hard hitting and energetic as the brothers pounded away at their instruments (it is not hard to believe they blew more that a few amps while recording this latest album).
The 7 song set, was marked by ambitious driving instrumental bursts, that despite being highly technical, avoided becoming overly excessive, maintaining the heavy rock roots that make them accessible.
It was novel to see all three members of the band singing along, however the brother’s voices are all so remarkably similar, that they blend into each other a little to much, not exploiting the possible impact this could have to its full potential. Despite this they definitely found themselves some new fans amongst the crowd – and are ones to watch.
Set list:
1. Laywayed
2. Blood Pride
3. Wax Workshop
4. Headless Conference
5. Maker
6. White Hands
7. Sun on Sun (played with bass instead of organ)
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