My Bloody Valentine to Tour N. America (Fingers Crossed)

It's the musical equivalent of J.D. Salinger emerging from seclusion. A mere 16 years since their last visit to this continent, shoegazer-rock masters of the omniverse My Bloody Valentine return to feed us with their bliss. Among the eight dates [see below; ht- Pitchfork], there'll be two at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, Oct. 1 and 2. (Oohh, nurse, the smelling salts.)

09-19-21 Monticello, NY - Kutshers Country Club (ATP New York)
09-22 New York, NY - Roseland
09-23 New York, NY - Roseland
09-25 Toronto, Ontario - Ricoh
09-27 Chicago, IL - Aragon Ballroom
09-30 San Francisco, CA - The Concourse
10-01 Los Angeles, CA - Santa Monica Civic
10-02 Los Angeles, CA - Santa Monica Civic

I saw MBV in Detroit and Toronto back in 1988 for the Isn't Anything tour and again in '92 for the Loveless jaunt; those shows remain towering landmarks in my gig-going experience (apocalyptic half-hour versions of “You Made Me Realise,” anybody?). As great as their albums and EPs are, MBV are even more riveting live—well, they were back in their prime. Whether they can still manifest that same sort of exalted, gorgeous whirlwind of noise pop remains to be heard. But it's a risk many will surely be willing to take.

Here's a video of “Swallow,” which showcases My Bloody Valentine's sublimely tranquil side, which really doesn't get enough respect.