Metric Open for Muse, Cover Neil Young at SXSW

Metric made the most of their opening slot for Muse on Friday night at Stubb's Bar-B-Q, churning out a set of mostly synth pop that showcased frontwoman Emily Haines' love for dancing and all-around stage versatility. The set drew heavily from 2009's 'Fantasies,' with Haines wasting no time in conjuring up the hammer imagery of 'Help I'm Alive,' pumping her fist during the song's infectious line "Beating like a hammer." But it was when the band briefly paused for a more atmospheric dissolution that Haines addressed the crowd about Metric's place of residence, Canada.

"I have this superstitious thing about Canada's greatest export, Neil Young," she said. Metric then played a short, spacey version of Young's 'My My, Hey Hey (Out of the Blue)' with Haines on vocals and guitarist James Shaw providing a rough sketch of Young.

That moment was just a brief aside; Metric has become known for their more danceable songs. But it was good to see that Canada's hometown hero isn't lost in all the Metric beats. Mostly, the band recalled a mix of new wave B-52s meets Siouxsie Sioux meets Haines' chipper, bouncy demeanor.

Other highlights included 'Gold Guns Girls' and a long, drawn-out version of 'Twilight Galaxy' that had Haines head-thrashing over her keyboards for an extended period. For those waiting to see Muse, Haines and company delivered a nice contrast to the alt rockers' guitar-heavy songs.

Metric have several dates scheduled in the U.S. and Europe this Spring, starting Sunday, Mar. 21 at the Showbox in Seattle.

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