The word 'seminal' is bandied about a lot in music, often thrown indiscriminately at any band who has aged enough to grow a paunch. But pre-The Shins et al, light-as-a-feather alternative pop-rock was the domain of Yo La Tengo. Because of this lightness their songs sound just as fresh now as they did twenty-five years ago, and their live covers are something not to be missed. Who could say no to a Spanish-guitar instrumental version of Blitzkrieg Bop? They are popularly known as 'the quintessential critics' band', but thankfully have none of the self-importance this usually entails.
The husband, wife, and bassist trio is one of the many bands playing at the set-to-be-splendid My Bloody Valentine ATP this December - if you're strapped for cash or time, you can catch them here for a fraction of the price. Expect an evening of melodic vocals, instrumental ditties, a bit of artful feedback, and probably quite a lot of plaid shirts. All the ingredients for the perfect Sunday night event, to recover from the Guy Fawkes festivities in style.
Kathryn Bromwich
Yo La Tengo play The Roundhouse on Sunday 8 November 2009. Tickets £17
