When pressed for thoughts about his music, all Christian Biel, singer/guitarist for LA-based band the Transmissions, can muster is a humble, “It's music that is best heard and experienced. Not talked about.”
But I shall try anyway. Because that's what I do.
During a recent Monday-night gig at Detroit bar, a friend described the Transmissions as sounding like the Cure gone emo—yes, she was totally stoned. Then again, this may just be a prerequisite for truly enjoying the indie-space rock concocted by Biel, along with drummer Denise Duncan and bassist Josh Solberg.
Listening to their songs, you get the feeling the trio doesn't just aim to be “different.” Instead, they seem to prefer rocking out nerd-core style, like a mellowed At the Drive-In or Rush on Klonopin. In fact, you might just get addicted—I was transported to a desert where the echoes of another time surrounded me. And I wasn't even stoned!
The Transmissions at Detroit Bar, 843 W. 19th St., Costa Mesa, (949) 642-0600. Mon., 9 p.m. Free. 21+.
