The Messthetics at Union Pool
Photo by Greg Cristman

The Messthetics (mems Fugazi) played Union Pool (pics, setlist)

The Messthetics, the instrumental trio featuring Fugazi’s rhythm section (Joe Lally and Brendan Canty) and experimental guitarist Anthony Pirog, are on tour now and played Brooklyn’s Union Pool on Friday night (7/12). With 30+ years playing music together, Lally and Canty remain a powerhouse engine: Lally’s bass is strong but understated, while Canty remains a force behind the kit and was clearly enjoying himself Friday night at the sold-out show. Pirog, meanwhile, is a monster on the guitar, using a vast array of pedals and effects that were set up on the floor, with another set at waist height for easier access and hand manipulation. He squealed, soared, roared and blissed-out, with jazz and prog elements clearly on display. The band gave the crowd a big taste of their forthcoming Anthropocosmic Nest (which is due out September 6 via Dischord), playing more than half of the record. A picture of the setlist is below.

Opening the night were Brooklyn soulful punks Lulu Lewis. Pictures of their set and the whole night are in the gallery above.

The Messthetics at Union Pool
Messthetics Setlist

photos by Greg Cristman