the ruby suns // neumo’s // photoset [flickr].

A quick highlights reel from Saturday night’s “A Drink for the Kids” benefit show at Neumo’s (which seems to have recently gotten a lighting upgrade [++]), where three bands, two comedians, and a bunch of Seattleites got together to imbibe and raise some well-deserved funds for the Vera Project. The Ruby Suns came all the way from New Zealand, wearing a classic Mariners cap to root against the Red Sox and for the kids of Seattle. Now a duo, member short of their sometimes trio, their sometimes calypso sometimes near-tribal pop rhythms induced a highly energetic fan to join them onstage for interpretive dancing and percussion.

mt st helens vietnam band // neumo’s // photoset [flickr]

To show their support for the all ages scene, Mt St Helens Vietnam Band went so far as to include an awesome 13-year-old drummer in their family lineup. After seeing this show, I think it’s fair to say that the summer self-induced hypebubble and adorable press kit [artintheage] are now among the less interesting aspects of the MSHVB story. Aside from all of that, they turn out to be a solidly entertaining rock outfit, epic and rollicking songs, and amazing tambourine sticks.

tokyo police club // neumo’s // photoset [flickr].

Tokyo Police Club demonstrated their commitment to sparklemotion by rushing across town in their sweaty clothes, away from the big Weezer show at Key Arena, and into the welcome embrace of the more cozy showroom at Neumo’s. Clearly relishing the longer timeslot and more relaxed schedule, they squeezed in about a million intense and fast songs (including an inspired Rentals cover), reminding me that for sheer spazzy enjoyment potential Elephant Shell is is likely to find a place in my top something list of this year. Perhaps in the category of lifetime achievement for enthusiastic tambourine work in the setting of keyboards, screaming, and occasional cross-stage skipping.