SALEM Pipeline

Typhoon at The Space
By Lisa Miller

Next to the garlicky and freshly baked dough smells of Christo’s Italian restaurant sits a small joint or space. Upon entering the black painted doors, you’ll notice its not just any space, it is The Space. The Space is a casual bar and club in the up and coming NoBro neighborhood in North Salem, off Broadway. The inside may be small and eclectically decorated like somebody’s hip garage, but don’t underestimate The Space. Once the room fills up with musicians and music lovers alike, this club transforms into one of the coolest hangouts in Salem.

Saturday’s line-up at The Space included the neo-psychedelic band Wampire, the electro-rock band Reporter, and the eclectic baroque pop band Typhoon. Before the show, my friends and I grabbed some beers from The Space’s nice selection of mostly local bottled brews. I did notice some adorable tiny pastries for only 50 cents apiece, though I didn’t get a chance to try them.

The Space didn’t really start to fill up until 9pm, though the show was slated to start at 7pm. As people and the bands started to trickle in, I noticed one thing that really stood out to me. Hugs! The club has such a relaxed feel to it, probably because of the friends and fellow musicians greeting each other like long lost family. Good music, good friends; what more could you ask for?

The band Wampire was a good lead in for the night’s other acts. Their set up was simple: two guys, two guitars and a playback machine for their electronic layers. Wampire’s energy was great and their music had some really inspired moments. At times they were a bit heavy on the layering, but their over all sound was well orchestrated, written, and played. The second I saw the girl lead and bassist for the next band, Reporter, I was intrigued. Though their songs seemed to end abruptly, Reporter gave us a great show. The lead singer’s voice was like a beautiful ghostly siren. I’d love to hear a longer set from them in the future.

After Reporter ended their set, Typhoon came onto the stage like a storm of percussion and brass. I have to admit, I have a soft spot for any type of large chamber group: pop, rock, or classical. Once the trombone, trumpets, 3 drum sets, violin, and crowd of band members came on stage, I became giddy with excitement. Set up took them a while, how could it not, but once they started playing I felt the urge to be up on stage with them. The music is well composed, and painstakingly orchestrated. And while they have a sound that is all their own, I did notice some musical moments echoing Rilo Kiley and Bon Iver. No offense meant to The Space, but next time I see Typhoon I’d like to hear them in a larger venue. There were so many instrumental layers I couldn’t hear in this small room. However, The Space is great place to “meet” a new band, as you can easily feel the excitement and energy of each song. Its a one of a kind experience.

If you missed Typhoon last weekend, don’t worry! They play in Salem at the Ike Box on November 24th. In the mean time, get down to the Space for a relaxed night of music appreciation and a beer.

The Space
1132 NE Broadway
Salem, OR
http://www.myspace.com/thespaceistheplace