Canyon was a band that I always enjoyed seeing in DC. It was exciting to hear a band operating out of the local post-punk scene that took country rock and psychedelia as their primary influences. “Blankets and Shields” is the closing track from their 2002 album Empty Rooms. It is one of their prettier songs, with a steady drum, guitar and some electric piano. They were also capable of creating big soundscapes with heavily effected slide guitars and swirling keys – one of the few bands (along with Dead Meadow) that I thought sounded good at Fort Reno. Under-appreciated and sorely missed.