Live: Why? at Central Methodist Hall

10th October 2012

9/10

“Manchester? I’d rather Ladychester. That’s just my preference”; Yoni Wolf’s stage banter mirrors the wit and honesty that makes him such a fantastic songwriter. In a live setting, Wolf proves his lyricism transcends that of any other artist around. The audience watches captivated as he delves into “the kind of shit I won’t admit to my head shrinker” on Good Friday, managing to regale tragic tales such as obscure as “sucking dick for drink tickets at the free bar at my cousin’s Bat Mitzvah” with an idiosyncratic sense of humour.

Genre-defying, Why? are a perfect storm of all the best elements of hip-hop, folk and indie. The band, which includes Yoni’s brother Josiah and sister-in-law Liz, pull this off impeccably as they replicate the tightness of their family unit in their musicianship. Josiah is particularly impressive in his multi-instrumentalist capabilities, swapping effortlessly between bass, drums and even an intense glockenspiel solo on ‘A Sky for Shoeing Horses Under’. Whilst Liz’ haunting backing vocals on ‘Bitter Thoughts’ lend an ethereal quality perfectly suited to the hallowed surroundings of the Methodist hall. Indeed, the venue adds to the occasion, proving a much more grandiose and intimate setting than a soulless Academy room.

Despite detailing stories of his depression and ennui on ‘Waterlines’, Yoni is highly enthusiastic throughout the show. He bounds around the stage in bizarre fashion, almost frog-marching at one point, but doesn’t once break stride from his flawless flow. ‘The Hollows’ sees this energy climax, with a furious, pulsating bassline underscoring a tale that describes, in true Why? fashion, a delightful tale of German men copulating in a basketball court and being chased by knife-wielding gypsies. As compelling and thrilling a live band Manchester is likely to bear witness to this year.