As Say Hi`s Eric Elbogen took the stage at Red Eyed Fly, he introduced himself with, “I’m called Say Hi.” And I have to say, it sounded kind of odd. I realize that solo acts with band names are nothing new and that Say Hi has essentially always been Elbogen on record with the live band taking various formations, but I’ve got to say, if you’re actually performing solo, why not just say, “Hi, I’m Eric.” I don’t really want to harp on this issue … but I will. And besides, he started it by changing his band name once already, going from the (to me anyways) far more interesting Say Hi To Your Mom to simply Say Hi. I really do think it was a better band name. In fact, adding some variation of “To Your Mom” could likely improve the names of many of the other performers here at SXSW this year. Don’t believe me? Here’s a few examples:
Clap Your Hands Say Hi To Your Mom
And So I Watch Your Mom From Afar
Of Monsters And Your Mom
This will Destroy Your Mom
Uncle Bad Touch To Your Mom
DC Pierson Your Mom
… and the list really could go on and on. See? It could totally make any name better. But OK, maybe that’s beside the point. What is the point? Well, I suppose it’s that Elbogen is a talented songwriter no matter what he calls himself or what configuration his band takes. I still think Say Hi To Your Mom is the better band name though …