In 2010 New Jersey ragged punks Titus Andronicus released an album named 'The Monitor'. It was an explicitly brilliant follow up to their debut and was easily my favourite album of 2010. In fact it has become my favourite album of the entire decade. I was lucky enough to see them live in New York in 2010, a blistering show at Webster Hall, but I hadn't seen them live since. Sadly they have never toured Australia. But on my recent US trip I found a way to work in a live show. Also it was in the great city of Portland. It was totally worth it. They played a lovely venue named Polaris Hall, a beautiful buidling that also hosts parties and weddings.

Lead man Patrick Stickles entered first and played a slow and stirring version of  'To Old Friends and New' before the band joined him. For close to two hours they ripped through their back catalogue including many cuts from their excellent 2019 album in 'An Obelisk'. My favourite being 'Troubleman Unlimited'. It was great to hear older classics too such as the bone splitting 'Fear and Loathing in Mahwah, NJ'. Of course 'The Monitor' songs hit the absolute roof. Especially the monumental epic that is 'The Battle of Hampton Roads'. What a total pleasure to hear this song live again. And Stickles is the perfect front man too. Loquacious and erudite, he totally involved the audience. Now please tour Australia! 

Set List
To Old Friends and New
Just Like Ringing a Bell
Troubleman Unlimited
Fatal Flaw
Ecce Homo
Still Life With Hot Deuce on Silver Platter
Above The Bodega (Local Business)
Fear and Loathing in Mahwah, NJ
On the Street
(I Blame) Society
Dimed Out
Tumult Around the World
The Battle of Hampton Roads
 A More Perfect Union
Titus Andronicus Forever