Bumbershoot Look-in: Beat Connection

Beat Connection at Bumbershoot by douglas fehlen

For too long the eclectic, multidimensional quality of Seattle’s music scene has been mischaracterized in out-of-town press by stereotypes about flannel-clad guitar-driven bands. Beat Connection, a prominent flag-bearer for the city’s electronic scene, might just help to change the national conversation about music in our city.

On Saturday, Beat Connection treated Bumbershoot fans to a tight set on the Decibel stage at EMP Sky Church. Accompanied by dazzling images projected on the venues’ massive 60’ x 33’ high-resolution LED wall, duo Jordan Koplowitz and Reed Juenger (accompanied by a live drummer) played cuts from the recently released Surf Noir EP. The much-buzzed single ‘In the Water’ drew the greatest response from those in attendance. While finding favor among the Seattle faithful, the early evening set drew more of a head-bobbing response than one of an all-on rave up.

A later timeslot for Beat Connection would have most certainly ensured an audience exhibiting more life on the floor. Those seeking out beats after the sun went down made their way to Bumbershoot After Dark, curated by Decibel. Saturday’s after-hours event featuring three prominent DJ sets provided a taste of what people can expect at the five-day Decibel Festival that begins on September 28. The fest, at which Beat Connection will appear, offers what is perhaps the greatest demonstration of the city’s vital electronic scene.