Urban Verbs

A reader passes on some stuff about the Urban Verbs, a band who sounded like Public Image back before there was a Public Image. They've reunited after a long absence from the scene; David Malitz enjoyed an early look at the group before its official reunion show at the 9:30 on May 24. The Urban Verbs played a preview show at Comet Ping Pong, which should come as no surprise to those who are familiar with Comet's reputation for supporting the art scene—that's painter Robin Rose on the acid synths.

Check out this incredible blurb from the band's site:

The band's first performances took place in 1978 at the Atlantis Club on F Street in Washington DC. The Verbs first practice space was in the Catacombs beneath the club and Roddy lived in a seventh floor loft there for a time. After catastrophic mismanagement by the club and building owner, the incredible Dody Di Santo took over and birthed the 9:30 Club, named for it's address at 930 F Street, NW as well as its usual opening time. The Verbs were the first DC band to play CBGBs (with the Cramps) in October of 1978. During that gig they were seen by Brian Eno, who was living in the West Village at 9 West 8th Street and recording the Talking Heads' "More Songs About Buildings and Food" at Chris and Tina's loft in Long Island City. After the Verbs second set he rushed home and typed a two page letter, replete with marginalia and beginning, "I was extremely impressed by your performance tonight. It struck me as a whole new set of ideas about how to structure sound.” He shared his thoughts about the structure of the Verbs' music and instrumentation and very generously offered to record two live Verbs sets at CBGBs the following week before leaving for Africa. "I realize this gush might surprise you somewhat (it did!!!) , but you came at a good time for me. I have been sitting in my apartment for the last three weeks, and before that in England, thinking and writing about music in a social sense: it's connection to the current state of life, if you'd like. And now to hear something which seems so very well connected is a joy."