N.Y. band Stationary Set keeps Knoxville in its rotation

Stationary Set

Stationary Set

KNOXVILLE — The Brooklyn-based Stationary Set assembled two years ago, comprising members from across the United States. Having already performed twice in fair Knoxville, the group is eager to return again, this time on its way to the South by Southwest festival in Austin, Texas, where it will promote its March 2 self-titled release.

In a saturated New York music scene, the Stationary Set has made essential connections quickly. The band has acquired a new management team, placing itself in good position to reach the next level. The group has also adapted musically: The Set's recently released, self-titled EP has honed down a grittier, percussion-minded sound that shifted away from the group's debut "Hip Hip Hooray!!!" EP. This new direction was aided by a chance New York contact, none other than Gerard Smith of TV on the Radio.

"We recorded the new EP between Gerard Smith's house, which we call the Ghost House, Matt Boynton's Studio in Brooklyn and our own rehearsal studio," says Set vocalist/guitarist Andrew Lutes. "I met Gerard a few years ago through my work. I actually didn't even know he was in TV on the Radio or a musician for almost a year. We became friends and when the opportunity popped up he was glad to lend a hand and some guidance.

"We wanted this EP to be less polished than 'HHH!!!' We wanted to be a little rough around the edges, and I think that comes through in the way we captured the sounds. Gerard helped a lot with the sounds and really kept us on schedule and on task."

With its second four-song EP out (both EPs available on iTunes), the group's next mission is a full-length but is patiently awaiting the right label support in the endeavor. The Stationary Set had prepared to sign a deal with MySpace Records, but the label, a joint venture between MySpace and Interscope, collapsed. However, the Set expects the new manager and lawyer added to the band's promotional team will soon deliver a new opportunity, especially after the group plays South by Southwest.

"We've played the FADER showcase (at SXSW) the previous two years," Lutes says. "We always have a blast down there. We can basically expect all of Brooklyn to migrate to Austin for a week, so we see a lot of familiar faces. This year should be no different. Also, we are looking forward to some warm weather."

Upon returning to Brooklyn after its three-week road stint, the Set looks to "reel in all the new material" before performing a handful of local gigs in preparation for an extensive summer tour. The group, who holds a special mutual fanship with Knoxville, assures our town will be a part of its next tour as well.

"We played Knoxville last year and the year before," recalls Lutes. "Knox has come to be one of our favorite stops on tour, our first experience was overwhelmingly cool, and it just seems to us that we really relate to the folks that come out to our shows there. Plus last time, I got offered a free haircut. I would really have to say that when a touring band from anywhere comes to Knox, if they get half the kind-hearted, nice and relatable kids out to the show that we've met, then Knoxville becomes sort of a 'we gotta come back here next time!' type of place. It's a good scene."

Friday, March 12, the Stationary Set and fellow New Yorkers Monogold will join local faves Mother Mange and Jackboots for a show at The Hill. Music is scheduled to kick off at 10 p.m., and the show is free for ages 21 and older and $5 for ages 18-20.

n A LOVE-HAITI RELATIONSHIP: The Square Room hosts "Hear Haiti: A Benefit Concert" tonight. The bill includes Erick Baker, Maggie Longmire, Angel Snow and Megan McCormick. Doors open at 7 p.m., and admission is $10 in advance or at show time. All ticket sales will benefit Haiti Disaster Relief.

n THE YANKS ARE COMING: Wednesday, the first wave of New York-based rock outfits hits Knoxville when Bear in Heaven, Cymbals Eat Guitars and Freelance Whales play the Pilot Light. The show is slated for 10 p.m. and costs $7.

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