Bird Names Is Flying The Coop

By Sarah Cobarrubias in Arts & Entertainment on Aug 3, 2010 3:20PM

It seems as though Chicago is constantly saying goodbye to Bird Names; the local experimental act, restless by nature, always seems to be heading off for yet another tour in either our country or another. Even at this moment they’re off touring the East Coast, and though they’ll be returning home to Chicago next week, it’s only for a short stay before they pack up and leave again. But this time it’s goodbye for good. After losing three members, the band’s core duo David Linneal and Phelan La Velle are relocating to Athens, GA and bringing the Bird Names brand with them.

Bird Names is a staple in Chicago’s DIY music scene, so needless to say we’re sad to see them go. Since we first stumbled across their live show at some random Pilsen house party in ’07, we’ve been fans of their unpolished approach to experimental psychpop - they layer vocal harmonies over hypnotic guitar, wobbly keyboard, and primitive bangs and howls for jangly, off-kilter rhythms that are both dizzying and pleasantly melodic. After six years together, five CDs, constant touring and a growing, cult-like popularity, Bird Names is still the type of band that prefers to play cozy loft shows and underground venues. They’re also the type of band who would probably play your birthday party for a few hits of acid and maybe a meal.

Before heading off to the Peach State, they’ll be playing a farewell Chicago show at the Box Social one week from today, Aug 10, with other locals Distractions and Count Brent and the Maestros and D.C. experimental act Hume. But certainly this won’t be the last Chicago hears from Bird Names. They’ll no doubt be touring again soon in support of a new album that is currently in the works, and how could they not make a stop in their native city? But perhaps the best way to keep up with the act is through Chicago label Moss Tapes, who will also be releasing Tour Tapes, an extended version of Bird Names’ upcoming album.

Bird Names are Playing Tuesday, Aug 10 at the Box Social, 2135 N Milwaukee, 8 p.m., $10, 21+