Rev Billy and the Church of Stop Shopping
Last night was the launch party for the new album by Rev Billy and the Church of Stop Shopping (appropriately titled Reverend Billy and the Church of Stop Shopping). Not a lot can prepare you for the Rev and his unique brand of evangelism, nor can words amply describe the Rev’s persona, so I have included a couple of brief video clips here and here.
If Rev Billy visits your town I urge you to attend one of his services. Last night’s crowd was as eclectic as it was carefree–although the free bar, hot dogs, popcorn, and pretzels may have contributed to the joyous atmosphere. Hallelujah! And, in case you were wondering how congregants of the Church of Stop Shopping celebrate at their after-show parties here’s a sneak peak.
(PS The setting for this event, the Angel Orensanz Foundation, is not–as you might expect–a church, but a former synagogue in the Lower East Side. You may be able to make out the Star of David towards the top of the picture.)
(10:30pm — Apparently there are some problems with the video! I’m workng on it. It works fine using Quicktime Pro 7, I promise you…)
(1pm May 11 — Problem solved)
Good morning. Thank you for the photos - reminding
me of the fun and ferocity of the evening.
William called you his “buddy” but then didn’t offer
a name, perhaps something Berger? Are you
an Englishman? Your friends at BBC were there…
Bill