Menomena plays at Bishop

If you don’t know where to take your valentine tonight, perhaps they’d prefer the indie scene of Portland, Ore., more than a paper-cut heart.

At 9:30 p.m., the Bishop Bar will host indie rock duo Menomena. According to the Bishop’s website, Menomena’s sound is “tragic and intimate, comic and endearing, personal and motivated.”

The group, combining Justin Harris and Danny Seim, represents Barsuk Records, the same label housing Death Cab for Cutie and Ra Ra Riot.

Bloomington’s Fort William Artist Management oversees Menomena’s affairs. We sat down with the band’s intern, senior and journalism major Eddie Suarez, for more information.

IDS: What do you do for the band?

EDDIE SUAREZ: I’m with the management company and help with the Facebook updates, general online stuff and whatever else needs to be done.

IDS: When did you start listening to Menomena?

SUAREZ: There were part of my management before I got there, so I’ve been listening to them for over a year.

IDS: Why choose Bloomington as a stop on the tour?

SUAREZ: It’s a great place to play. Bloomington has always been welcoming to artists and students know the scene really well, especially the indie music scene.

IDS: What sets them apart from other indie rock bands that you’ve heard?

SUAREZ: It’s really just their sound. Their current album is a little more aggressive and they use a nice blend of music like flute and cello. They have their own distinct sound, and they can put on a hell of a show. They also really get the audience involved.

IDS: Do they have a successful future ahead of them?

SUAREZ: Of course. With the new sound they have, they’re going to have a bright future. Their live shows are amazing, and their new music is outstanding. I really think this show will get their name out to the Midwest.