GEMS have done so much in the past year to make themselves one of my favorite new bands, and their CMJ show at Mercury Lounge on Thursday was just further proof that they’re the real deal.
For those of you that are unaware, or need a refresher, GEMS come from Washington D.C. and feature Lindsay Pitts and Clifford John Usher. They create powerfully moving ethereal dream pop that will move you in ways like you’ve never felt before. They’ve captured the power and spirit of their music with skillful grace whenever I’ve seen them live, and this performance improved on the previous ones, making them even that more impressive.
Live they are able to recreate the atmosphere and passion of their recordings so well, it’s almost scary. Their vocals sounds just as good, if not better live. Lindsay is the lead vocalist, but don’t be surprised when Clifford’s vocals come in an equally knock you back. There’s nothing these two can’t do.
In one short year they’ve made themselves one of my favorite new bands. With songs as good as their most recent single “Medusa” or their first single “Void Moon” being released so consistently, it’s amazing to think they’re still unsigned, though I can’t imagine that will stay that way for much longer.
Check out some more photos from the set below.
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