Corp Rock

Corp Rock is usually an epithet, denoting soul-less music. But the folks of Blimp Rock embrace that "moniker", if only ironically. And enough people like their brand of smart-assed music that they held a CD release show at The Dakota for their 2nd album (Sophomore Slump). It was a bonus that it was at an early time slot on Saturday.

Their bassist took to the stage first as solo project "Tyson's Casio Fiasco". Although it was true that he backed himself with typical synth-generated beats and strings, his main effort was ping-ponging between various guitar effects. Overall, the set didn't work for me. You need some great arrangements to overcome those cliché accompaniments. Furthermore, the abrupt guitar changes seemed clumsy.

There was a full crowd there, who was more than happy to chant "profit, profit", to cheer on the 15-minute PowerPoint presented by the CEO of Blimp Rock Enterprises. The gist: they need about $700,000 to host the world's only music festival held inside a blimp (with cover bands and sophisticated mixed drinks). The 1st CD only made $80 in profit, so this was another crack at it. Amazingly, the "marketing team" comprised of some great musicians. So we got the wry Sophomore Slump ("My first crush didn't talk to me"), sweet Sensitive Boys, and a genuine dance-floor hit Let's All Stay In Tonight. The audience also cheered for old numbers like Lake Ontario Lifeguards and The Love That Treats You Right. Some who were new seemed a bit confused: the whole thing is a joke, but the music is good. Blimp Rock probably didn't raise $850,000 tonight, even with funny accounting. But they are developing an appreciative fan-base.