Northampton’s Prewn rolled through Deep Cuts on Wednesday. Has Western Massachusetts found its favorite local stage? Holyoke’s Landowner is practically a subletter at the brewpub and venue at this point. The band must be spreading the good word around the Pioneer Valley.
Izzy Hagerup, the musician behind the moniker, led the live version of Prewn through a set that heavily featured songs from her latest LP “System,” released via Exploding in Sounds Records. It’s a rollicking album of anthemic numbers that mobilize Hagerup’s considerable vocal talents around driving, building, pulsating percussive riffs.
Prewn was completed by three other musicians on stage: a lead guitarist, bassist and drummer. The lead guitarist, in particular, enjoyed a long leash, launching into billboard-sized rock ’n’ roll solos for long stretches that significantly embellished the live versions in comparison with the studio recording counterparts.
However bright the lead guitar shined, Hagerup shined brighter, effortlessly commanding the attention of the room and a crowd that bobbed in time with her voice. There’s a star power that’s undeniable. Though there are a few too many songs on “System” that sound the same, whatever the formula is for that one Platonic ideal of a song, it works divinely, and Hagerup’s charisma takes care of the rest.
The fan devotion extended to the merch line, which formed a snaking trail from the main entrance all the way into the back of the performance area. A rare feat. Hagerup was on hand to preach the gospel of Prewn in the form of T-shirts, vinyl records, CDs and tote bags.
Boston’s Lane opened in support, closing with recent single “Scream.”
Video courtesy of Hump Day News.
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