OK Go!

I thought this band were just a one hit wonder on the back of the success of their fantastic treadmill video and thanks to You Tube and Facebook propagation.  But on further listening I've discovered that these Chicago indie-rockers have a lot more to offer.  The band is Damian Kulash (lead vocals and guitar), Tim Nordwind (bass guitar and backing vocalist), Dan Konopka (drums and percussion) and Andy Ross (keyboards, guitar and backing vocals).  The band name comes from Damian and Tim's art teacher, who used to say "OK...Go!" when they were drawing. Their most frequently cited musical influences are Pixies, The Cars, Cheap Trick, T.Rex, Queen, Prince and The Zombies.  What makes them really stand out is their unique part-glam, part-geek rock fashion sense, they are known for combining loud, clashing patterns and wearing waistcoats, sweater vests, ties, dress shirts and an unusual amount of jewellery. In interviews they say their fashion influences are Oscar Wilde, David Bowie, "Republican assholes", and "other people too wealthy to know how crazy they look".  You may not get to see any of their legendary synchronised dance moves - but you'll get to hear their perfectly formed, indie rock sound - and that's enough to satisfy.

OK Go - Monday 25th Jan, 9pm
Die Werkstatt, Grüner Weg 1, Cologne
www.werkstatt-koeln.de