Southeast Performer Magazine sent a reporter out to our show in Atlanta back in June.  They never ran it in print because they didn't have a photograph from the show.  The reason being, they didn't send a photographer or tell the writer to bring a camera.  After much prodding by us (after all, they made the guy come out and write the darn thing) they published the review online.  Here it be:

Morningbell

Relapse Theatre

Atlanta, GA

June 25, 2008

Here at Performer's, we like to think that every week some band from another city or state is playing a basement in your town and 15 people are getting their minds blown. Be one of them. Well, when Morningbell played a show in the downstairs section of the Relapse Theatre, a comedy club, in Atlanta. I was one of those 15 people.

After a mix-up with booking Morningbell, a relatively popular up and coming psychedelic rock act, found itself with an open date in Atlanta and not a lot of time to book. Relapse opened its doors with no promise of a big crowd. However, on short notice and in a venue that isn't meant for music, Morningbell brought the musical fire that earned them a spot on the bill at Bonnaroo this summer.

Opening with an older track, Morningbell brought out one of the aspects to its act that makes it unique in a modern day indie scene that has seen just about

everything. Bassist Eric Atria, during certain parts of the set (including the opening song "Placebo Torpedo") plays the Theremin, an instrument that produces high-pitched eerie noises a la "Good Vibrations" by The Beach Boys.

Although there were few things to complain about during the show, lead singer Travis Atria apologized that the band would not be playing with its trademark "Christmas light jackets" because his was electrocuting him.

Aside from its quirky side, Morningbell puts out a great musical product, including the airy voice of Atria and the impressive rhythm section work of Eric Atria and Chris Hillman. Stacie Thrushman provides perfect supplemental instrumentation on the keys and Atria can do unnatural things with his guitar.

The band broke out a couple of new songs entitled "Hello, Dali" and "Good Morning, I'm Here" that featured unbelievable musical work and dazzling vocals.

The energy onstage grew and grew until a fever pitch was reached during the closing numbers of when the band abandoned its instruments for an all percussion rendition of The Beatles' "Tomorrow Never Knows." The small crowd was left begging for more after the band left the stage and the quartet returned for an encore performance of "I Found Jesus (Hiding Under the Bed)."

A lot of bands would have mailed in a performance to such a miniscule audience under such frustrating conditions. However, Morningbell gave off the feel that they were putting forth more effort to make the best of an opportunity to personally connect with an audience.

-Review by Michael Aguilar

http://www.performermag.com/sep.livereviews.0808.php  (scroll down till almost the end, or search for "Morningbell")