Those in search of good energy, good vibes, and good times should mark Sunday March 11 on their calendar, when New York psychedelic songsters Psychic Ills take the stage at Cafe Istanbul. Their sound has been said to depict a dreamy mescaline trip through the desert, with fuzzed-out guitars twirling around your head, drone-y organs, and vocals that let your mind wander.
October 2011 marked the release of the Psychic Ills’ third full-length album, Hazed Dream, on Sacred Bones Records. Bassist Elizabeth Hart describes the album as more “songy” than previous ventures. “Every release is like a marker in the journey of the band—some are more experimental, some more accessible, but it all sounds like Ills, I think.” Fun, intriguing song titles like “Mexican Wedding” “Mind Daze” and “I’ll Follow You Through The Floor” serve as sonic descriptions of unique individual voyages through the depths of consciousness influenced by dreams and ever-evolving states of mind.
The band is excited to be on the road, and in particular to play New Orleans for the first time since 2007. Hart expressed her affinity for the city, commenting on its unique and magical essence. With fresh material and a fresh sound mixed with the energy of the tour, Psychic Ills is sure to produce quite the performance.
Psychic Ills play at Cafe Istanbul Sunday, March 11 with Woodsman, Midday Veil, and 9ris, 9ris opening, plus a screening of short film Twelve Dark Noons. Tickets are $10. The show is 18+.