Review Summary: A taste of Minneapolis: full of potential, The Poor Nobodys is a group to look out for.
Relatively new to the Minneapolis local scene, The Poor Nobodys completely caught this reviewer by surprise. Guitarist Brandon Hepola humbly responded to my inquiry concerning the haunting melody surrounding us (Pillaged Wealth) while I waited to pick up my ladys decaf-nonfat-no whip mocha, "Uhh yeah thats my band." First off, sorry about the outrageous drink... just know you made a pregnant woman happy (for at least a few minutes) with top-notch barista powers. But also, nice work marketing at your place of employ, else Id never have been the wiser to one of the most promising Minneapolis acts today.
Epic, yet grounded largely in folk and classical territories, The Poor Nobodys self-titled EP is a varied and multi-dimensional take on the spaghetti-western soundtrack genre as typified by Ennio Morricone - combining this, elements of Chopin, and a strong Americana base yields distinct (and decidedly good) results. No single member is the clear virtuoso of the septet, with effectively complimentary male and female vocal performances, equally impressive skill in Italian and bluegrass guitar techniques, and complete cohesion between the rhythm and strings. If anything besides a non-ridiculous, non-polka application of the accordion, the vocal performance of Jenna Wyse should be applauded: soaring in the aria of Mopus Opus and sickly sweet in the folk-steeped country of Stone Arch Waltz, such artistic range is enviable.
In a region almost saturated with hipster trappings (be it in attitude or fashion), its completely refreshing to find such an eclectic collective of musicians with aspirations infinitely more pure than establishment of the next anti-culture trend or hit indie sensation. Ill definitely be in the crowd at June 27th Minneapolis gig; if youre in or near the Twin Cities, come on down, the first rounds on me. Heres to a full on LP to come.
The Poor Nobodys EP can be streamed nearly in its entirety at www.myspace.com/thepoornobodys - will update with purchase information as available. Check the same site for tour and venue information.
