Re-Viewed: David Singer & The Sweet Science at Martyrs'

By Scott Smith in Arts & Entertainment on May 31, 2005 6:18PM

The darkness of Martyrs' contrasted the indie-pop stylings of David Singer and the Sweet Science this Thursday evening. The lyrics of the songs, however, wryly remind us why we're in the dark. David Singer's songs cover the range of human emotion. His Elvis Costello-esque voice relates the everyman's inner turmoil from dealing with crass commercialization or insecurity or love. The Sweet Science combine piano and guitar perfectly for their songs.

Sitting at the tables around the edges of the stage are a small, but committed group of fans who tap their feet along to the catchy pop melodies that somehow make it okay to hear the confessions from "When The Spring Is Finally Here" from the latest CD The Stars Burn Out. This song is typical of David's music: letting us in on what's happening in his mind. Is it loneliness or fear?
Following this was a little humorous ditty "Bad Babysitter" which relates the story of a sitter who is bored and snoops through the house and goes places where Mommy wouldn't go.

Next the band showed its sensitive side by playing "I'm Not Leaving" from the Civil Wars CD. This is a story about opening up to love and desire. The versions of all the songs this evening are more upbeat live than they are on either CD.

After a quick exit and return to the stage the encore ensued, but not before David let us all know that he discovered his fly was down and that "he doesn't work blue". This ended the short, but sweet set from David Singer and The Sweet Science.

Overall, a fun set from one of Chicago's finest songwriters that is still flying under the radar. Hopefully that will change as David and the band start playing more often around town.

Catch David Swinger and the Sweet Science on June 11th at the Bottom Lounge with Desert City Soundtrack and Settlefish.

Thanks, Julene!