Pile
The Milestone
Dec. 8
Although the population within was dwindling, the Milestone itself had a positive vibe of anticipation that could be felt throughout the building. It had been awhile since Boston's Pile had come through, and despite the low turnout of this Thursday night, those who were in attendance were stoked to the point that it didn't matter. The energy was still there.
After Our Years' feel good indie, Junkhat's White Stripes tinted classic rock and Public Relations' new and improved, more heartfelt-driven set with a new bassist, our locals stepped off, Pile set up their gear and with the first notes heard, everyone in the building ran into the room to experience the compilation they had been waiting for.
The title of their album may claim Magic Isn't Real, but Pile truly is magical to the eardrums. Their music cannot be classified — it ranges from heavy to mellow to heart-wrenching and so powerful they can bring tears to your eyes. Sometimes their progression mimics that of metal with heavy bass and driving leads; sometimes it's even seemingly indie with higher chords and catchy hooks. Overall, though, they have their own dynamic sound reminiscent of every 1990s rock band that was ever worthy of your time, with their own modern and original twist that immaculately straddles genres. “You promised you would suck!” a member of Junkhat exclaimed from the crowd. “We will, after the show,” Rick, their guitarist/vocalist responded in a sultry tone. Laughter filled the air and they continued into the remainder of their set, carrying on with their musical sorcery in every song they played and taking us away into their realm of originality, wrenching hearts, shaking hips and banging heads alike.
The next time Pile comes through town, it would be in your best interest to come out. They are something particularly special and worthy of your listening time and have the capabilities to captivate audiences of different archetypes with the same vigor of their own genre. They deserve a sold-out house and Charlotte should show them the courtesy of such a spectacle.