With a name that implies something new, undiscovered, mysterious and well, altogether, different, there was definitely a level of expectation prior to seeing The New Frontiers at the Troubadour on Sunday, August 3. Expectation often results in let down which can quickly turn into deep rooted resentment which later evolves into unadulterated rage which… well, thank god The New Frontiers didn’t disappoint. Living fully up to the expectation placed upon them, The New Frontiers covered a realm of live music many have likely never quite experienced before. Yes, there was a lead singer, yes there were guitars and yes, there was even a drummer. Yet, while the setup was quite familiar (an old frontier so to say) the music and vocals were anything but.
Comprised of Nathan Pettijohn, Ryan Henry, Jacob Chaney, Guy Turner and Alex Bhore, The New Frontiers are a Dallas based band whose music is more grandiose that indie but far too rooted in the emotions of the human existence to be pop. They ride the fence of the two juxtaposing genres in a manner that proves music doesn’t have to be one or the other, music shouldn’t have to choose between black and white because music, of all the art forms, is sometimes better gray. Playing mostly songs from their newly released, “Mending,” The New Frontiers gave the notoriously difficult Los Angeles crowd (and even more harshly critical Troubadour regulars) something rare: a genuine band playing music from a place deeper than the heart without ever holding back their polished and brilliant talent.
Too often great bands become far too aware of the fact that they are great and begin to act as though the audience should be thanking them for their attendance and not the other way around. While the talent of The New Frontiers could afford a level of elitism, they never once overplayed or tried to act like anything other than truly gifted musicians gracious for the opportunity to share their passion. Throughout their set list, The New Frontiers continued, song after song, to show their breadth of musical knowledge while keeping their songs accessible to those who listened leaving the audience and the band grateful for the shared experience of good music.
Without doubt many of those at The Troubadour this evening were there for Honorary Title and, as expected, Honorary Title played an awesome show. What many didn’t expect, however, was to leave having a new band to love. The New Frontiers proved why it is often a good idea to get to the show before the headliner: you may just discover an uncharted territory of music that is far better than the old world sound you were so attached to. The New Frontiers played a brilliant show and they should certainly be explored by all who want something more, something different, and something simply damn good.
Pictures By: Jamie M.
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