Final Fantasy & Cadence Weapon @ Bowery: Northern Lads

In July of 2006, Final Fantasy's sophomore effort, He Poos Clouds, and Cadence Weapon's debut record, Breaking Kayfabe, were both nominated for Canada's prestigious Polaris Prize. Towards the end of September it was announced that Owen Pallett (Mr. Final Fantasy) was victorious and walked away with the $20,000 prize. Now, 14 months later, the overwhelmingly talented artists have teamed up for a brief North American trek. Last night marked the tour's New York stop at Bowery Ballroom & it was nothing short of brilliant.

I was first introduced to Cadence Weapon's live show during CMJ - Day 3 to be precise (photos here). He and his DJ (Weasel) combine 80s-esque hip-hop/dance beats with intense vocal deliveries, all with a massive party vibe a la 'Push It'-era Salt N Pepa. Alberta's finest easily won over the sold-out crowd during the course of his 35-minute fist-pumping shout-inducing set, which featured a brief appearance by Owen as well as a ridiculously entertaining cover of Joy Division's 'Isolation'. Cadence Weapon, come back soon. Please.

Learn more about Cadence Weapon here at his official site.

MP3: Cadence Weapon - Black Hand

Whereas the last time I saw Final Fantasy at Bowery Ballroom he was opening for Beirut (review & photos via this link), this time he confidently and majestically headlined the 550-capacity venue. Highlighting favorites from his two albums to date, he also treated the overzealous attendees to a handful of brand new tracks from his forthcoming Heartland LP, in addition to a John Cale cover. Returning for three (!) encores, he closed the evening with his genius take on Mariah Carey's 'Fantasy'. Spectacular! Check out a series of photos below. Learn more about Final Fantasy here. Download a FF MP3 at bottom of post.







MP3: Final Fantasy - Please Please Please [alt link]