It seems like there is always a rivalry between the band nerds and the orchestra geeks in high school. As of last night, the band nerds are soundly winning that battle on a global level. Australia’s answer to
The Arcade Fire, Architecture in Helsinki (AIH), played Café du Nord last night and showed that there really is no stringed defense for a sound dose of trumpets, trombones, clarinets, French horns and pretty much every percussion instrument handed out in music classes. “Lots of hand claps, dinging, and synthesizers-- but all in a good way” was one viewer’s summary of the sound of AIH. While an accurate description, it neglects to acknowledge the multiplex, yet listenable sound that has been packing clubs in every town AIH has hit while supporting their latest album, "In Case We Die".

AIH’s eight person line-up showed the value of having band members who can multi-task. SFist enjoyed watching the complex rotation through instruments. We’ve always wondered how folk-rock ensembles manage to pay the bills, apparently the answer is by only admitting members who can, during the same song, sing back up vocals, hit a triangle, and bust out a clarinet solo. These guys may be the super-heroes of band nerds everywhere. Highlights of their set included songs ofr their new album like “Maybe You Can Owe Me”, older numbers like “Do the Whirlwind”, and a Randy Newman Cover.