Trying to describe the New York City-based herMajesty could take a while. The first thing you hear is a strong David Bowie influence with a bit of glam rock. Then they channel new wave via The Cure, plus indie rock like Arcade Fire and The Decemberists. You can also hear inspiration from Peter Gabriel in the soaring vocals. “Majestic” does seem like a good word to describe the band’s overall sound.

While herMajesty grabs from all of these influences, they avoid approaching mimicry, instead drawing from them to create something genuine, original and beautiful. Their songs are full of dark, personal, sometimes haunting lyrics. The rhythm section is steady, with flinty bass and steady drums. The keyboards and guitars add multiple layers of intricacy to the sound.

I asked vocalist JP what we can come to expect from herMajesty’s set at Mohawk Place on Friday, November 3rd. He told me, “Visually, live, we are a mysterious and dynamic bunch. I play to the emotion of the songs and, at times, can get close to speaking in tongues… [we’re] definitely a passionate bunch.”

This will be herMajesty’s third trip to Buffalo. They love playing Mohawk Place in particular because of its management, sound system and lighting rig. The show, which also features The Tins, Monogold, and The Heroic Enthusiasts, starts at 8 pm.

I’ve never seen herMajesty live, but I’m excited to. Their music is unique, relaxing and, while completely original, feels like familiar somehow. It’s as if someone took some of my favorite artists, threw them a blender, and produced a delicious herMajesty milkshake. Come check them out on November 3rd and see what all the fuss is about.

Seriously, it’s only $5. You will find no better bang for your buck than a Friday night out for $5. Skip the bars with the cover bands and see something truly original that will knock your socks off.

Check out HerMajesty’s music at www.soundcloud.com/herMajestyny.

Ryan Gurnett has a B.S. in Music Industry from The College of St Rose. He has worked as a studio engineer, live sound engineer, producer and sound editor and has been a musician for 25 years. He is currently the bassist for The Lady, or the Tiger?. Email him at SirWilliamIdol@gmail.com or find him on Twitter @SirWilliamIdol.


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