SXSW Last Night: The Big Sleep at Mohawk

Sonya of The Big Sleep. (Chelsea Ide)

It may be impossible not to dance to The Big Sleep. At least I couldn't resist at the band's Wednesday night show at Mohawk. The Brooklyn-based band layers jagged riffs over a strong, steady beat; lending itself to hip shaking. Don't misunderstand, though, The Big Sleep is dark. And intense. When bassist Sonya sings, her near monotone, melancholic vocals contrast with the high energy melody. This dichotomy is intriguing, but not overly cerebral.

Find out what I'm talking about at one of The Big Sleep's other SXSW shows:

• 1:30 p.m. today, March 13, at Red Eyed Fly


• 12:30 p.m. Friday, March 14, at the Beauty Bar


• 4:15 p.m. Friday, March 14, at Guero's


• 3:45 p.m. Saturday, March 15, at Saxon Pub

-- Chelsea Ide