Best of D.C. 2009

Hard to say what the best use of air pressure is—balloon animals? The weather? The shout band that plays on Dupont Circle? But no matter what occupies the top spot, Gestures, D.C.’s shambolic drums-n-brass band is a shoo-in for runner-up. Using a tuba, a trombone, a saxophone, a clarinet, and two drum kits, Gestures kicks up a lot of noise. The result is sort of a cubist take on high school marching band music, full of sudden changes and strange harmonies. It’s also surprisingly loud, given that the band doesn’t use a lot of electricity or amplification. Gestures definitely blows—that’s meant as a compliment.at the best use of air pressure is—balloon animals? The weather? The shout band that plays on Dupont Circle? But no matter what occupies the top spot, Gestures, D.C.’s shambolic drums-n-brass band is a shoo-in for runner-up. Using a tuba, a trombone, a saxophone, a clarinet, and two drum kits, Gestures kicks up a lot of noise. The result is sort of a cubist take on high school marching band music, full of sudden changes and strange harmonies. It’s also surprisingly loud, given that the band doesn’t use a lot of electricity or amplification. Gestures definitely blows—that’s meant as a compliment.