Originally from Philadelphia and now living in New York, Damon McMahon aka Amen Dunes's stage presence is not immediately apparent as the band shuffles through the crowd and quietly onto the intimate stage of the 100 club. Accompanied by lead guitar and sparse delicate drums, Damon himself plays an old Gibson Semi-acoustic through a high reverb Fender Electric guitar amp, giving him a signature gritty but dreamy sound when matched with his layered and distinct vocal style.
Often described as Lo Fi Psyche or Folk, I heard an intricacy and depth to their sound which was extremely engaging and almost trance like when the drums became heavier. Damon himself refreshingly embodies a nomad figure, a true artist who is inspiringly detached from the modern world. If you listen or not he would still be making the music he loves and that in itself makes him an intriguing figure. His charisma however, is not overwhelming and he clearly feels more comfortable belting out a vocal from the depths of his belly than filling time between songs for tune-ups.
His vocals are the key, such is his singing style and use of reverb that only occasional words are decipherable but the sentiment is clear in every one. Most songs were from new album 'Love', released through the 'Sacred Bones' label, the first studio album from an artist who has expressed discomfort with the usual recording process, previously preferring to use home recordings on a Tascam 4 track. On first listen I was mesmerised by the album, I see optimism and honestly, a unique sound that transcends time and I'm so glad it's been captured and produced well.
Check out new single 'Lonely Richard', the epitome of his sound and the highlight of the set for me.
Thomas Cavanagh
