As a last minute Saturday evening decision, I decided to check out an evening of comedy, literature & music as presented by McSweeney’s, Smith Mag & The Rumpus. The 2+ hour event featured readings and giggles by all of the following talents: Todd Barry, Eugene Mirman, Amy Tan, Anthony Swofford, Jessica Anthony, James Hannaham, Stephen Elliott. However, my most cherished sections were highlighted by mini-performances from Amanda Palmer & Nada Surf frontman, Matthew Caws. Amanda’s 2 song set included a brand new ditty (focusing on her dismay of a yuppie family purchasing her childhood house) and her stellar cover of Radiohead’s ‘Creep’. Matthew Caws was fortunate enough to squeeze in four songs. My fave of the bunch would surely be his charming take on Let Go’s opening track, ‘Blizzard Of Seventy Seven’. View all upcoming gigs at Highline Ballroom here. We’re giving away a pair of tix to catch Patrick Wolf @ Highline Ballroom on June 23rd!

View more photos & download two tunes AFTER THE JUMP…

MP3s: Amanda Palmer - On The Radio & Nada Surf - Do It Again