Covering San Antonio's music scene since 2005
Showing posts with label Show Reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Show Reviews. Show all posts
Friday, October 14, 2011
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
PapaWood and Jawbreaker @ Cowboys Dancehall 10/28/2007
Sent to me by A. Non Imus:
Wow, where do I start... I got a pass to this Miller Lite sponsored shindig (and thanks for the free beer Mr. Miller...) and since I've been too busy to review anybody, I decided to take a night off and catch a couple of sets. Now of course, the PA was on the house, and if you've been there, you know it's gonna make some noise. So I really won't comment too much on the sound, except for individual achievement here and there. PapaWood took the stage first, and lead singer Nathan was in full costume looking ghoulish as can be. (Check out photos @ http://hotspotsofsanantonio.com/adpage.aspx?adid=events some time in the near future...) They opened with
"Somebody Told Me" by The Killers, and as you're starting to think.... "Oh great, another dance band..." those of you who have seen their show before know they just kill this song. It's great to hear a danceable song done with more edge than the original. That's what makes PapaWood great. They hit all the notes, seriously they hit 'em all, but still manage to make every song their own. Part of it is Nathan's voice which has matured a lot since the last time I saw them. He seems to effortlessly switch from a crisp clear tone, to a grainy growl or nasty scream and back again with ease. He really has learned to use his instrument well. Spade (Bass) is so technically proficient, it is like watching a clinic on how to play bass. He isn't the most active guy on stage, but having a good bass line is so important, and he never missed a lick, and through the numerous Tool and Chili Pepper covers they did, he played them all perfectly. Todd's rhythm guitar likewise is dead on. His harmonies are flawless, and his voice plays a perfect compliment to Nathan's. Dave's lead guitar is in a word... Sick. Sanitarium by Metallica was absurd. I have only seen one guy in San Antonio (in a cover band) kill those fingerboarding parts like that as well as him. I'll give you all three guesses who that is... Dave is also quite the showman, I'd like to see his chiropractic bill from all that head banging. Dave, you freakin' rock. And last but not least, Fred on the Drums. Fred's combination of technical playing and raw intensity with great backing vocals is just amazing. The double bass parts of every song they do were executed perfectly, and the kit sounded very well rounded out. The song selection was varied, and even when they would step outside the "Rock-Box" and do some Maroon-5, they rocked it out. The tone in the guitars and bass was dead on, these guys have obviously been doing this a very long time and it shows. I like to sit and try to hear things that just aren't right, and this is the wrong band to do that with. You will waste your time, just enjoy it. I give ratings from 1-5 stars.... Tonight, PapaWood was at 5 stars without a doubt. Look forward to seeing them again soon.
Jawbreaker was next to take the stage. I hadn't ever seen them before but heard the lead singer was not only hot but had a great voice, so I stuck around. Well, she may have been hot, but she looked like a quarterback complete with helmet tonight!!! Image-wise, these guys look like a party band so I was very interested to see if they would really bring it. I gotta admit, I was clueless about half the time as to what song they were playing or who it was by, probably because with a female lead you're not gonna be doing a lot of music that requires singing notes in a male's lower register. So I was really trying to overlook that. But then I noticed the drummer had a head set on and when they broke into "Scottie Doesn't Know" I thought I would hear something.... Nothing... Either his mic was off or something was wrong, because all we could hear was the lead singer's voice in the chorus. Then as the night progressed, I started to notice my personal pet peeve NUMERO UNO.... Backing Tracks, Midi-Files, whatever term you wish to use. I am old school, and believe if you can't play it, don't... Or do the best you can with what you've got. I started hearing multiple keyboard parts while nobody was at the keyboards, what sounded like multiple guitar parts with one guitar on stage, and then the big moment of the night when most of the musicians in the house (and there were many) just went pale in the face... Closer by Nine Inch Nails came on. Folks, I have heard this song as many times as you... And let me tell you what I heard last night from the "drum kit" was so good, and sounded so perfect and synthesized, not a person in that room believed for a second that his kit was making that sound. The percussion in that song cannot be duplicated without a lot of electronic help (Not to mention the drummers arms bringing down this thunderous smack of the skin, was not exactly in-sync with what we were hearing). Many people were saying how they believed they were using the actual track from NIN, and with what I was hearing, I would seriously have trouble disagreeing with those people. It is very difficult to single out individual talent when your mind is pre-occupied with listening for midi-files, but I really should say that the lead singer's voice is quite good. She went from a deep scream to a crystal clear tone in one song, and had perfect pitch throughout the night. The guitar player was more than proficient, which is why I was wondering why they didn't just let him play and not worry about second and third guitar parts. You don't need a backtrack for that (Ask Burndown). I truly couldn't tell when the bass player was playing, or not, half the time. So I will hopefully catch up with you guys someday in the future and take a closer listen, maybe when you leave the keyboard that doesn't get played much, at home. Seriously, a note to the lead singer: Girl, you are damn good and you have a great voice and good image don't let midi-files leave people (especially your fellow musicians in San Antonio) talking smack about your band. And although I heard a lot of bad things being said about the use of backing tracks, nobody had anything but good things to say about you. I give Jawbreaker 2 out of 5 stars as a unit, although the lead vocalist was much better.
A. Non. Imus
Wow, where do I start... I got a pass to this Miller Lite sponsored shindig (and thanks for the free beer Mr. Miller...) and since I've been too busy to review anybody, I decided to take a night off and catch a couple of sets. Now of course, the PA was on the house, and if you've been there, you know it's gonna make some noise. So I really won't comment too much on the sound, except for individual achievement here and there. PapaWood took the stage first, and lead singer Nathan was in full costume looking ghoulish as can be. (Check out photos @ http://hotspotsofsanantonio.com/adpage.aspx?adid=events some time in the near future...) They opened with
"Somebody Told Me" by The Killers, and as you're starting to think.... "Oh great, another dance band..." those of you who have seen their show before know they just kill this song. It's great to hear a danceable song done with more edge than the original. That's what makes PapaWood great. They hit all the notes, seriously they hit 'em all, but still manage to make every song their own. Part of it is Nathan's voice which has matured a lot since the last time I saw them. He seems to effortlessly switch from a crisp clear tone, to a grainy growl or nasty scream and back again with ease. He really has learned to use his instrument well. Spade (Bass) is so technically proficient, it is like watching a clinic on how to play bass. He isn't the most active guy on stage, but having a good bass line is so important, and he never missed a lick, and through the numerous Tool and Chili Pepper covers they did, he played them all perfectly. Todd's rhythm guitar likewise is dead on. His harmonies are flawless, and his voice plays a perfect compliment to Nathan's. Dave's lead guitar is in a word... Sick. Sanitarium by Metallica was absurd. I have only seen one guy in San Antonio (in a cover band) kill those fingerboarding parts like that as well as him. I'll give you all three guesses who that is... Dave is also quite the showman, I'd like to see his chiropractic bill from all that head banging. Dave, you freakin' rock. And last but not least, Fred on the Drums. Fred's combination of technical playing and raw intensity with great backing vocals is just amazing. The double bass parts of every song they do were executed perfectly, and the kit sounded very well rounded out. The song selection was varied, and even when they would step outside the "Rock-Box" and do some Maroon-5, they rocked it out. The tone in the guitars and bass was dead on, these guys have obviously been doing this a very long time and it shows. I like to sit and try to hear things that just aren't right, and this is the wrong band to do that with. You will waste your time, just enjoy it. I give ratings from 1-5 stars.... Tonight, PapaWood was at 5 stars without a doubt. Look forward to seeing them again soon.
Jawbreaker was next to take the stage. I hadn't ever seen them before but heard the lead singer was not only hot but had a great voice, so I stuck around. Well, she may have been hot, but she looked like a quarterback complete with helmet tonight!!! Image-wise, these guys look like a party band so I was very interested to see if they would really bring it. I gotta admit, I was clueless about half the time as to what song they were playing or who it was by, probably because with a female lead you're not gonna be doing a lot of music that requires singing notes in a male's lower register. So I was really trying to overlook that. But then I noticed the drummer had a head set on and when they broke into "Scottie Doesn't Know" I thought I would hear something.... Nothing... Either his mic was off or something was wrong, because all we could hear was the lead singer's voice in the chorus. Then as the night progressed, I started to notice my personal pet peeve NUMERO UNO.... Backing Tracks, Midi-Files, whatever term you wish to use. I am old school, and believe if you can't play it, don't... Or do the best you can with what you've got. I started hearing multiple keyboard parts while nobody was at the keyboards, what sounded like multiple guitar parts with one guitar on stage, and then the big moment of the night when most of the musicians in the house (and there were many) just went pale in the face... Closer by Nine Inch Nails came on. Folks, I have heard this song as many times as you... And let me tell you what I heard last night from the "drum kit" was so good, and sounded so perfect and synthesized, not a person in that room believed for a second that his kit was making that sound. The percussion in that song cannot be duplicated without a lot of electronic help (Not to mention the drummers arms bringing down this thunderous smack of the skin, was not exactly in-sync with what we were hearing). Many people were saying how they believed they were using the actual track from NIN, and with what I was hearing, I would seriously have trouble disagreeing with those people. It is very difficult to single out individual talent when your mind is pre-occupied with listening for midi-files, but I really should say that the lead singer's voice is quite good. She went from a deep scream to a crystal clear tone in one song, and had perfect pitch throughout the night. The guitar player was more than proficient, which is why I was wondering why they didn't just let him play and not worry about second and third guitar parts. You don't need a backtrack for that (Ask Burndown). I truly couldn't tell when the bass player was playing, or not, half the time. So I will hopefully catch up with you guys someday in the future and take a closer listen, maybe when you leave the keyboard that doesn't get played much, at home. Seriously, a note to the lead singer: Girl, you are damn good and you have a great voice and good image don't let midi-files leave people (especially your fellow musicians in San Antonio) talking smack about your band. And although I heard a lot of bad things being said about the use of backing tracks, nobody had anything but good things to say about you. I give Jawbreaker 2 out of 5 stars as a unit, although the lead vocalist was much better.
A. Non. Imus
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Radio Junkies at the 2nd Virgo Bash, 9-8-07
Oh gawd where to start.
I didn't want to miss a 'go' by simply thanking the Radio Junkies for celebrating yet another killer "Virgo Bash" at Boozehound's last weekend! So why not back-track (to the best of my ability! Memory Disclaimer *wink*;)
Got there too early (as per), armed with what looked like chocolate cakes, not quite sure at the time.
Rowan had two Ozzy center-pieces that would just not stand up straight, kept leaning over and looked like he was falling down in mud. Perfect, we love him too:)
I'm glad I was there early, got to meet and greet Robert, Trey and the rest of the band & was able to shoot a couple chill me outs before being totally psyching out on our table:)
Hey you don't turn 21, 29 or 40-ish everyday!
Things kind of started off slow at the club, but among our tables of celebrantes, the place was finally at capacity.
It's funny how one can hear a sound check, rip into what I call a 'teaser' from The Red Hot Chili Peppers and some old school Van Halen.
Yes to me this holds MUCH satisfaction to the listener, knowing it's gonna rip...
From Fuel to Godsmack, Disturbed, and The Toadies, back to my personal fave dance spot, Killing in the Name - RATM. The dance floor was definetly ripping:)
Their spot of "Dead or Alive" was equally great, as was the fitting "Beer Drinkers (and Hell Raisers), by ZZ-Top!
I was also pleasantly surprised to hear a cover by The Pixies too:)
Everyone was totally into this fairly new and much welcomed band, by yours truly, Boozehound's and their patrons.
Hell what more can I say? Thank you!
Monday, September 10, 2007
Exit Stage Left
I went up to BoozeHounds Friday night to check out Ron Jarzombek’s new band, Exit Stage Left. I know what an awesome guitarist Ron is, and I had heard great things about vocalist Amanda Ruiz, so I had no doubt that it would be an enjoyable musical experience. And naturally I wasn’t disappointed. Ron of course kicked out the guitar licks to perfection. Amanda’s voice was amazing. You don’t hear many female vocalists belting out Rush, Led Zeppelin and Tool. At times, she actually sounded just like Geddy Lee. I think some of the really low notes were a bit of a strain for her, but I can’t fault her for that when she’s covering songs by male singers. She also impressed me on Heart’s “Barracuda” and “Black Dog” by Led Zeppelin. That girl rocks!
I didn’t know anything about the bassist or drummer, but I assumed they’d be good for two reasons. 1) I can’t see Ron putting together a band of sub-par musicians. 2) I think you have to be a pretty confident musician to decide to cover Rush songs. I mean, Geddy Lee? Neil Peart? Alex Lifeson? Undoubtedly some of the best musicians in rock. You just don’t attempt to play their songs in public if you suck, am I right? And of course, they were awesome.
They started the first set with the perfect choice: “Overture” and “Temples of Syrinx” from Rush 2112. I kinda wished they’d kept going and done the whole first side of 2112. That would have been so cool. I was very impressed that they didn’t limit their Rush covers to the more radio-friendly Rush songs, but also did some kickass Rush instrumentals, like “La Villa Strangiato” and “YYZ.” I was hoping they would, but bands are generally leery of doing instrumentals, so I wasn’t holding my breath. Exit Stage Left have the balls to play them, and the crowd was lovin’ it.
They also did a lot of more contemporary songs, and I honestly can’t really tell you which ones, because when they weren’t playing songs I was really into, I was more concentrating on getting my ass kicked at pool. I know they played that 30 Seconds to Mars song that goes “bury me bury me” or whatever, because I hate that song and think it’s proof that Jared Leto ought to stick to being pretty and dating everyone in Hollywood, but that’s just my opinion. People must like that song or else KISS wouldn’t play it constantly, right?
So, here’s where I run into a dilemma of what to say. My personal opinion was that Exit Stage Left should do more of the classic Rush, Led Zeppelin, Heart, etc. and less of the contemporary radio hits (except for Tool...they should keep doing Tool). Most of the local cover bands do all those other songs, but who else plays “Black Dog” or “YYZ”? I really enjoyed hearing those classic songs, and it seemed to me that the rest of the audience did, too. But I could be wrong. And as someone else pointed out to me, the band has more options of venues to play if they do more variety. I suppose that’s true. I guess I can only look at it from my viewpoint as a music lover of my age and not from the viewpoint of a band trying to be successful.
ANYWAY, Exit Stage Left kicked ass, check ‘em out if you can, you won’t be sorry. They’ll be playing at Roxy’s Friday and Soho Saturday. Check the rest of their schedule on Exit Stage Left's MySpace page.
I didn’t know anything about the bassist or drummer, but I assumed they’d be good for two reasons. 1) I can’t see Ron putting together a band of sub-par musicians. 2) I think you have to be a pretty confident musician to decide to cover Rush songs. I mean, Geddy Lee? Neil Peart? Alex Lifeson? Undoubtedly some of the best musicians in rock. You just don’t attempt to play their songs in public if you suck, am I right? And of course, they were awesome.
They started the first set with the perfect choice: “Overture” and “Temples of Syrinx” from Rush 2112. I kinda wished they’d kept going and done the whole first side of 2112. That would have been so cool. I was very impressed that they didn’t limit their Rush covers to the more radio-friendly Rush songs, but also did some kickass Rush instrumentals, like “La Villa Strangiato” and “YYZ.” I was hoping they would, but bands are generally leery of doing instrumentals, so I wasn’t holding my breath. Exit Stage Left have the balls to play them, and the crowd was lovin’ it.
They also did a lot of more contemporary songs, and I honestly can’t really tell you which ones, because when they weren’t playing songs I was really into, I was more concentrating on getting my ass kicked at pool. I know they played that 30 Seconds to Mars song that goes “bury me bury me” or whatever, because I hate that song and think it’s proof that Jared Leto ought to stick to being pretty and dating everyone in Hollywood, but that’s just my opinion. People must like that song or else KISS wouldn’t play it constantly, right?
So, here’s where I run into a dilemma of what to say. My personal opinion was that Exit Stage Left should do more of the classic Rush, Led Zeppelin, Heart, etc. and less of the contemporary radio hits (except for Tool...they should keep doing Tool). Most of the local cover bands do all those other songs, but who else plays “Black Dog” or “YYZ”? I really enjoyed hearing those classic songs, and it seemed to me that the rest of the audience did, too. But I could be wrong. And as someone else pointed out to me, the band has more options of venues to play if they do more variety. I suppose that’s true. I guess I can only look at it from my viewpoint as a music lover of my age and not from the viewpoint of a band trying to be successful.
ANYWAY, Exit Stage Left kicked ass, check ‘em out if you can, you won’t be sorry. They’ll be playing at Roxy’s Friday and Soho Saturday. Check the rest of their schedule on Exit Stage Left's MySpace page.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Radio Junkies
Radio Junkies! Radio Junkies! Radio Junkies!
I'm definitely a FAN
All I can say is WOW! What a show! I definitely can see why you guys are the talk of the town. You had the place jumping and screaming for more and you delivered. It has been along time since I've seen a band turn a place out, young and old, like that. Thanks for a great time. I can't wait to see all of you again.
San Antonio if you are looking for an entertaining explosive live show, you need to check these guys out.
Good News S. A. Rock Fans! You will have a chance to hear Radio Junkies at the Virgo Bash, come out and celebrate with Rowan and the gang at the annual Virgo Bash, September 8, 2007 at Boozehounds on Perrin-Bietel.This is a chance to come out and show your appreciation for all the hard work Rowan and her crew put into this site and enjoy live music from a great group of musicians. Thanks for all your hard work! On September 8th I want all of you to party like a ROCK STAR!
I came across this comment from Saturdays show and how true it is.
Hey I drove by Wise Guys this morning and there were a bunch of guys up on the roof. I asked them what they were doing and they said they were roofers hired to fix the damage from last night. Seems somebody
BLEW THE ROOF OFF THE PLACE!!!!!
BLEW THE ROOF OFF THE PLACE!!!!!
Lee
Hey Girl you are not lying!(Lee is the Sexy Female Drummer for Ulterior Motive)
Rock on Guys
Smiling D.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Flipside @ The Falls – Friday, 08/17/2007
I hadn't seen these guys in a very long while I must admit. I walked in just as they were starting and immediately liked the depth of the sound. They have a great sound overall, very balanced and the drums were able to be felt and heard, without being obnoxiously loud in comparison to the whole. The bass player never missed a note while I was there, and his harmonies were on 99% of the time. I am always impressed with a bass player who can harmonize and keep it all together. I’m jealous I admit it. The drummer was technically on point and the sound of his kit was tight and crisp. Likewise, he didn't miss a beat. The guitarist was better than most I've heard around town good in the gut and even better in the solos. The lead singer was pretty good at keeping the crowd involved, but it was kind of difficult understanding him when he wasn't singing because the effects on his vocals were as wet as San Antonio’s weather the previous week. The effects were ok for the music, but when he would try to talk to the crowd, I was never completely sure what he was saying. His vocals were pretty good. He had areas where he topped out as all vocalists do, and he knew where that “don’t go there” zone was, and let the effects do the work for him. Smart man. I would have liked to hear a bit more clarity and less mud in the vocals; the effects were just a bit too wet. But he had a good voice and good image. Songs that stuck out to me were “Amber,” overdone in San Antonio but these guys really go out of their way to do the song the way it was meant to be done – “Paralyzer,” by Finger Eleven was good as well, nice funky feel in the verses, and rockin' out the choruses. “Santeria” was probably the best I've heard in town in a long time. They started the song and I had no idea what it was. They weren't concerned at all with trying to make it sound anything like Sublime, which is why it was so good. For the first time I can remember, the pop sounding song really rocked - Well Done. Loved the solo played with that dirty-ass mudded up guitar. “It's Not Over,” by Daughtry was done pretty well; first time I've heard anyone in town cover that. I was interested to see what the crowd response would be. Guys could care less, every girl in the place singing every single word. Ah well, that's what you gotta do sometimes. (Whatever keeps ladies coming to your gigs - otherwise you don't have any). I was surprised after doing Daughtry, which really appeared to be very vocally demanding, the singer went into “Pain,” by 3 Days Grace. He had a little trouble getting through that one, but I gotta give him and the band some serious love for a very progressive set list, and the singer got through it somehow. The only song that I thought was off - to the point that they might need to revisit it in the practice hall - was “Hey Jealousy,” by the Gin Blossoms. I think the lyrics were all over the place, or maybe they were shortening the song. If you guys were shortening the song, then for you because it's too damn long anyway. I did hear a few spots in it where the musicality kinda dropped right out of it, almost like there were parts someone didn't quite know completely. Maybe it was a new addition for the band or something, but one song outta the whole ain't bad fellas. I was diggin' it.
I agree with the Manager who was saying the lights and smoke were well done for the most part. We agreed you need a bit more constant light though on the gels, looks like they had a delay in the chase or something and every once in a while the stage would go dark for too long in an already dark corner of the club. But this is the kinda crap club-owners and managers notice. They want a show, not just a band. He did like you guys alot by the way. All in all, I was very entertained and will definitely go to see these guys again when I’m not having to stay sober… On a scale of one to five Stars, I'll give Flipside 4 out of 5 Stars.
I agree with the Manager who was saying the lights and smoke were well done for the most part. We agreed you need a bit more constant light though on the gels, looks like they had a delay in the chase or something and every once in a while the stage would go dark for too long in an already dark corner of the club. But this is the kinda crap club-owners and managers notice. They want a show, not just a band. He did like you guys alot by the way. All in all, I was very entertained and will definitely go to see these guys again when I’m not having to stay sober… On a scale of one to five Stars, I'll give Flipside 4 out of 5 Stars.
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Fuze at BoozeHounds
Went up to BoozeHounds last Friday night to see Fuze (and talk to Scott about a Virgo Bash...more details on that later). I hadn’t seen guitarist Ernie Cruz since he was in Rok Candy, so I was excited to get to see him again. He’s such a nice guy and such a good guitarist, and has helped me out with this site quite a bit.
The problem with doing a write-up so long after the actual show is that I can’t remember what songs the band played and I didn’t write anything down that night. I also didn’t get any pictures because the batteries in my camera were dead and I couldn’t afford to buy any more. Of course, had I known that everyone was going to keep buying me beer all night, I would have gotten batteries, but I didn’t know. Thanks everyone!
I do know that they played a lot of good songs and that Kel and I danced our butts off! Ernie kicked butt on guitar, often coming out onto the dance floor and jamming for us. I really liked singer Ruben’s gritty vocals. Excellent job. John on bass and James on drums were also very good. A solid band. They were just all really good and very nice. Hung out with us, bought us beer, played us good music. It was a really fun night.
The main song I do remember that they played was “Killing in the Name.” I had asked them if they played it and they said they did. So I was waiting for it. It’s one of my favorite songs to dance to. They finally did and we danced so hard I was all sweaty (and Kel accidentally spilled ice water down my back trying to cool me off - yikes!). Unfortunately during the song, some people (who previously got mad at me for calling them “rowdy” at another show - I didn’t think rowdy was an insult, but whatever) started moshing and evidently knocked some girl down or something. There were cops and an ambulance...I don’t know what exactly happened. But they were just having fun and didn’t mean to hurt anyone.
Speaking of Rok Candy (from back in the first paragraph), you may remember that they broke up when their singer Duke was called away to Iraq. I had wondered recently if he was back and had made it back all in one piece. Well, he was at BoozeHounds that night, just back from the war and all in one piece. And ready to rock. He even got up and sang a couple songs. It was great to see him back!
It was also nice to see Brad Ponder of Texas Special and Swampmouth and hang out with him. He’s always fun to hang with!
All in all, except for the ice water and the girl getting hurt, great night! Great music!
You can check out Fuze for yourself Friday, August 24th at Main Street, over on Wetmore Rd., and September 1st at Firehouse on Walzem.
The problem with doing a write-up so long after the actual show is that I can’t remember what songs the band played and I didn’t write anything down that night. I also didn’t get any pictures because the batteries in my camera were dead and I couldn’t afford to buy any more. Of course, had I known that everyone was going to keep buying me beer all night, I would have gotten batteries, but I didn’t know. Thanks everyone!
I do know that they played a lot of good songs and that Kel and I danced our butts off! Ernie kicked butt on guitar, often coming out onto the dance floor and jamming for us. I really liked singer Ruben’s gritty vocals. Excellent job. John on bass and James on drums were also very good. A solid band. They were just all really good and very nice. Hung out with us, bought us beer, played us good music. It was a really fun night.
The main song I do remember that they played was “Killing in the Name.” I had asked them if they played it and they said they did. So I was waiting for it. It’s one of my favorite songs to dance to. They finally did and we danced so hard I was all sweaty (and Kel accidentally spilled ice water down my back trying to cool me off - yikes!). Unfortunately during the song, some people (who previously got mad at me for calling them “rowdy” at another show - I didn’t think rowdy was an insult, but whatever) started moshing and evidently knocked some girl down or something. There were cops and an ambulance...I don’t know what exactly happened. But they were just having fun and didn’t mean to hurt anyone.
Speaking of Rok Candy (from back in the first paragraph), you may remember that they broke up when their singer Duke was called away to Iraq. I had wondered recently if he was back and had made it back all in one piece. Well, he was at BoozeHounds that night, just back from the war and all in one piece. And ready to rock. He even got up and sang a couple songs. It was great to see him back!
It was also nice to see Brad Ponder of Texas Special and Swampmouth and hang out with him. He’s always fun to hang with!
All in all, except for the ice water and the girl getting hurt, great night! Great music!
You can check out Fuze for yourself Friday, August 24th at Main Street, over on Wetmore Rd., and September 1st at Firehouse on Walzem.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Alter Ego with Brett - Soho - July 13th
Friday the 13th must be my lucky day. I was heading up to Soho to FINALLY see Alter Ego with Brett (formerly of Deja Vu) singing with them. On the way, I stopped to get gas and this guy comes over and insists on pumping the gas for me. Said I shouldn’t have to pump my own gas. (I know, I thought it was pretty weird, too, and a little scary, but kind of nice.) Then, when I got to Soho, I was met at the door by bassist Steve Elliott. I was like, ooh, quality service...greeting me at the door! (Ok, really he was coincidentally going out when I was coming in, but I can pretend it’s because I’m special, right?)
Then the whole Soho experience. There are two things I normally don’t like about Soho.
1) I never know anyone there. But, this time I DID! Robert and Tony (Tony, right? I’m so bad with names. Correct me if I’m wrong) from Deja Vu were there, so I actually had people to hang out with and talk to! Actually Jason from Deja Vu was also there, doing sound for Alter Ego, so the whole gang was there. It was like...well, deja vu.
2) The echo. I know I’ve mentioned it before, but in case you missed it and have never been to Soho (or, previously, Lucky’s), the stage backs up to a big wall with mirrors on it and it faces (what, 20 feet away?) a big blank wall. It’s a freaking echo chamber. It can really wreak havoc on a band’s sound. But this time there was no echo! It sounded great. They accomplished this miracle by (hope I’m not giving away a trade secret or anything) precisely calibrating the angle of the sound waves to the surface of the...ah hell, they turned the speakers away from the wall, outward, diagonally. Hey, it worked.
Just to rant on this echo thing a little longer...skip this paragraph if I’m boring you...but what kind of nimrod decided that between two big walls was a good place for a stage? (Nimrod, if you’re reading this, I’m sorry I called you a nimrod, but c’mon, seriously.) The place is L-shaped. Wouldn’t down at the end of the long line of the “L” be a better spot for a stage than right in the middle of it? Couldn’t the pool tables go upstairs? (I don’t even know what’s upstairs. I’ve never been up there.) At least take down the mirrors, put some fabric or other sound-absorbing substance on the walls. Ok, I’m done. For now.
Ok, where was I? Gas pumped, met at the door, people to hang with, no echo. Lucky day. Ok, enough of that. On to the band.
First of all, they had this whole Friday the 13th theme going on, with Brett and Jason dressed up in “Camp Soho” shirts and Steve dressed up like Jason from “Friday the 13th.” So that was fun.
And they sound great with Brett on lead vocals. I’ve seen Alter Ego a couple times with Bruce singing, and Bruce was good, but Brett has more range and he is more of an entertainer. He’s more animated, goofing around, dancing, pantomiming the songs. He’s lots of fun to watch. I also enjoyed him with Deja Vu, but I really like his voice for rock music, whereas Deja Vu was more 80's dance/pop. Alter Ego does a lot more rock. I think Brett and Alter Ego are a great combination.
Good song lineup. Starting with some Bush, Seven Mary Three, Everclear, Blink-182, Stone Temple Pilots, Robert Palmer, Presidents of the United States of America, Ramones, White Stripes, Sublime, Radiohead and Green Day. Second set: Nirvana (does anyone else do Nirvana? I can’t remember another band playing any Nirvana. Good job.), The Cult, Cracker, Weezer, Audioslave, Social Distortion, Blur, 3 Doors Down, Lit, more Ramones. Then finishing up with more STP, Foo Fighters, Violent Femmes, more Sublime and The Cult, Buckcherry, Wild Cherry, The Toadies, Tool, Collective Soul, Local H, Puddle of Mudd...I’m sure I’m missing a few, but that’s most of it.
Now, for some reason, the response from the crowd was sort of weak - not much dancing, etc. - and that bothers me, because I can’t figure out why. I know Brett was obsessing over the sound, but honestly, it sounded really good! And with Brett’s antics and Steve running around with his bass and his Jason mask, they kept my attention. Like I said, the choice of songs was good...a good mix. Seriously, I don’t think it was anything the band did wrong or badly or whatever. I think it was just a mellow crowd. Whenever I looked around, I saw people watching the band, singing along and all that. They just weren’t rowdy.
There was a funny moment when someone yelled out “FREEBIRD!” and Brett gave him this, for free:
I had fun...good music + good people + good beer = FUN NIGHT!
Then the whole Soho experience. There are two things I normally don’t like about Soho.
1) I never know anyone there. But, this time I DID! Robert and Tony (Tony, right? I’m so bad with names. Correct me if I’m wrong) from Deja Vu were there, so I actually had people to hang out with and talk to! Actually Jason from Deja Vu was also there, doing sound for Alter Ego, so the whole gang was there. It was like...well, deja vu.
2) The echo. I know I’ve mentioned it before, but in case you missed it and have never been to Soho (or, previously, Lucky’s), the stage backs up to a big wall with mirrors on it and it faces (what, 20 feet away?) a big blank wall. It’s a freaking echo chamber. It can really wreak havoc on a band’s sound. But this time there was no echo! It sounded great. They accomplished this miracle by (hope I’m not giving away a trade secret or anything) precisely calibrating the angle of the sound waves to the surface of the...ah hell, they turned the speakers away from the wall, outward, diagonally. Hey, it worked.
Just to rant on this echo thing a little longer...skip this paragraph if I’m boring you...but what kind of nimrod decided that between two big walls was a good place for a stage? (Nimrod, if you’re reading this, I’m sorry I called you a nimrod, but c’mon, seriously.) The place is L-shaped. Wouldn’t down at the end of the long line of the “L” be a better spot for a stage than right in the middle of it? Couldn’t the pool tables go upstairs? (I don’t even know what’s upstairs. I’ve never been up there.) At least take down the mirrors, put some fabric or other sound-absorbing substance on the walls. Ok, I’m done. For now.
Ok, where was I? Gas pumped, met at the door, people to hang with, no echo. Lucky day. Ok, enough of that. On to the band.
First of all, they had this whole Friday the 13th theme going on, with Brett and Jason dressed up in “Camp Soho” shirts and Steve dressed up like Jason from “Friday the 13th.” So that was fun.
And they sound great with Brett on lead vocals. I’ve seen Alter Ego a couple times with Bruce singing, and Bruce was good, but Brett has more range and he is more of an entertainer. He’s more animated, goofing around, dancing, pantomiming the songs. He’s lots of fun to watch. I also enjoyed him with Deja Vu, but I really like his voice for rock music, whereas Deja Vu was more 80's dance/pop. Alter Ego does a lot more rock. I think Brett and Alter Ego are a great combination.
Good song lineup. Starting with some Bush, Seven Mary Three, Everclear, Blink-182, Stone Temple Pilots, Robert Palmer, Presidents of the United States of America, Ramones, White Stripes, Sublime, Radiohead and Green Day. Second set: Nirvana (does anyone else do Nirvana? I can’t remember another band playing any Nirvana. Good job.), The Cult, Cracker, Weezer, Audioslave, Social Distortion, Blur, 3 Doors Down, Lit, more Ramones. Then finishing up with more STP, Foo Fighters, Violent Femmes, more Sublime and The Cult, Buckcherry, Wild Cherry, The Toadies, Tool, Collective Soul, Local H, Puddle of Mudd...I’m sure I’m missing a few, but that’s most of it.
Now, for some reason, the response from the crowd was sort of weak - not much dancing, etc. - and that bothers me, because I can’t figure out why. I know Brett was obsessing over the sound, but honestly, it sounded really good! And with Brett’s antics and Steve running around with his bass and his Jason mask, they kept my attention. Like I said, the choice of songs was good...a good mix. Seriously, I don’t think it was anything the band did wrong or badly or whatever. I think it was just a mellow crowd. Whenever I looked around, I saw people watching the band, singing along and all that. They just weren’t rowdy.
There was a funny moment when someone yelled out “FREEBIRD!” and Brett gave him this, for free:
I had fun...good music + good people + good beer = FUN NIGHT!
Monday, July 16, 2007
13 Muses, Brotherhood, Lokey & Before the Bloodshed
ADDED NOTE: Ok, this was originally called "Drunken First Draft - Clarification and Pics Later" because after having about 8 beers at Kristal this night, I came home and thought it would be funny to try to write a review with a good buzz. I figured the next day I would have to do a serious rewrite (and possibly make some apologies!) But hell, it's already been up a few days and I don't think it's all that bad. So I'll just add some pics and maybe a few comments (like this one).
Went to Kristal tonight. I wanted to see 13 Muses. I used to work with bass player Troy back when at Wizards, when he was with Alienation. I never got to see Alienation. One of the things that sucks about working in bars is that you actually miss a lot of the fun things that are going on because you have to work.
When Troy and I worked together, he had LONG dreads and I had heard from Chris Bower that he had cut them off, so I didn’t know if I would recognize him without them. But I walked in and looked up at the stage and the first thing I saw was Troy and I recognized him right away.
Troy from 13 Muses (that's a guitar pick in his mouth)
So, I got there early into 13 Muses’ set. I missed opening band the Ripp-Offs. I had also wanted to catch Rev Lil Timmy & the Lords of Discipline, but I understand that they actually had to cancel, so my lateness wasn’t a factor. I hear it was some kind of medical emergency, so I hope everything is ok!
Anyway, I walked in and 13 Muses was on. The first song I heard was all growly and I was hoping that wasn’t all they were. I like growls and screaming, but not when that’s all there is. I want to hear some melodic lyrics and guitar and some cool bass and pounding drums, too. Turns out they had all that, too.
The songs that impressed me the most were the last two. “End of Days” and then one they dedicated to a friend who died last week, “Afraid.”. That was a real tearjerker, but a damn good song. Sort of slow and very emotional. I think that’s when a song is the most powerful...when a strong emotion is evoked and everyone can feel it emanating out. The crowd definitely went crazy on this one. I almost felt a little misty myself and I didn’t even know this girl.
Next up was Brotherhood. These guys have a good time! I have never seen so much smiling in a heavy show before. They’re going to have a good time, and dammit, you better have one, too. At one point, the singer asked if everyone was having a good time and the response was lame. He was like, “What the fuck?! You’re out! You spent money. Why don’t you fucking yell?!” And everyone seemed to realize he was right. We’re out! We’re having a good time! We’re drinking beer! We should fucking shout! And we did.
Brotherhood
Next up was Lokey. I’ve reviewed them before and I always love these guys! You just don’t get much more balls out hyper energy than this. Terry Anderson may be small, and he makes fun of that himself, but the energy he puts out is HUGE! There was hair-dancing galore! These guys have been around forever and they know how it’s done! I remember doing promo’s for them back when I did the website for Odyssey. They love San Antonio and they rave about that in their show. They love us, we love them. There wasn’t a person there who didn’t shout out their name.
Lokey - this guy makes great crazy faces,
but I never could catch one - oh well
Last up was Before the Bloodshed. And while I have to say that this was the most entertaining segment of the night, they were actually my least favorite band. Almost all the vocals were screaming and I just don’t see the talent in screaming everything. And I wasn’t the only one. Others around me were happy when the sound cut out. I saw one guys plugging his ears. But danm, theses guys had half the club up on the stage with them, singing, dancing, moshing. There was a bikini contest going on, which, as a woman, I would have to call one of the most pathetic things I’ve ever seen. These pretty girls were told they needed to go around the club and impress people while the band played and they had to dance around the stage and be sexy. Even Terry Anderson said that he didn’t like it because the girls had to humiliate themselves to win. And it was humiliating. Not that they weren’t beautiful. They just shouldn’t have had to debase themselves like that. But, hey, if they were willing to do that...more power, I guess. Hopefully they really needed the money.
Before the Bloodshed
Really, it was a great night, if for no other reason than that everyone was there. Suzi from Suzi’s Rock Page. Jen from The Scene. Toni from The Edge...she took pics of the bikini contest, so I guess check that out. So many people from other bands. I know there were members of Pitbull Daycare in the house. Randy Bonillas from KISS. It was like who’s who of SA Rock. At one point, Suzi bet me she could pick up Nancy Silva and she did! Nancy is fucking TINY! Cool chick, though!
I ended the night talking to one of the guys from BrokenSeal, who couldn’t understand why I am leery of going down to The Rabbit or Bonds alone. He thinks I should own a gun, but I am very against guns due to the fact that when they’re used, statistics show they’re usually not used against criminals, but accidentally used against family members, people you know, etc. He thinks I should at least carry Mace or pepper spray or whatever. I told him I generally rely on my temper and that I take as my example Kwai Chang Caine from Kung Fu. He is my hero. This guy has never watched Kung Fu, so I told him he needs to spend some time with Kung Fu to understand my point of view. We had a deep drunken conversation about this in the parking lot.
ADDED NOTE: What good would a gun do me? I couldn't carry it from my car to a club. You can't take a gun into a club. It's illegal to carry a gun in a place that serves alcohol.
SECOND ADDED NOTE: I know that this conversation doesn't make complete sense, but I'm pretty sure that's actually how it went, lol. So I can't lie. I was a-buzzin!
Great night. I love this place. We still have the debate going on whether the drum kit sticking out of the wall at Sneakers was first Peter Criss or Tommy Lee. I think it was Peter Criss first, then Tommy Lee. But I’ve been told I’m wrong. Terry Anderson only remembers it as being Tommy Lee and no one else .So does Troy. But I know at some point it was Peter Criss.
Randy, who judged the Rock City Battle of the Bands with me and Suzi, agrees with me that it was Peter Criss first.
ADDED NOTE: Ok, Fred has schooled me. (Check the comments.) It was Tommy Lee first. In my defense, I did LOTS of shots at Sneakers!! Seriously, as I mentioned in the comments, I think I remember it backwards just because it would have made more sense, music-timeline-wise.
Also, speaking of Sneakers, the DJ came out with a list of all the bands that have played that stage....White Zombie,. STP, Alice in Chains, Ted Nugent, Pat Travers, Montrose, Rob Halford...on and on...he said it was hallowed ground. Fuck yeah.
I’ve seen probably half the bands he mentioned there. The Offspring, Blue Oyster Cult, Sam Kinnison right before he died (OOH OOOOHHH!) The history of the place just haunts the place. For those of you too young to have experienced it....I think you can still feel the vibe there. There were definitely some youngsters there tonight that seemed to feel the reverence that the place is due!
Went to Kristal tonight. I wanted to see 13 Muses. I used to work with bass player Troy back when at Wizards, when he was with Alienation. I never got to see Alienation. One of the things that sucks about working in bars is that you actually miss a lot of the fun things that are going on because you have to work.
When Troy and I worked together, he had LONG dreads and I had heard from Chris Bower that he had cut them off, so I didn’t know if I would recognize him without them. But I walked in and looked up at the stage and the first thing I saw was Troy and I recognized him right away.
Troy from 13 Muses (that's a guitar pick in his mouth)So, I got there early into 13 Muses’ set. I missed opening band the Ripp-Offs. I had also wanted to catch Rev Lil Timmy & the Lords of Discipline, but I understand that they actually had to cancel, so my lateness wasn’t a factor. I hear it was some kind of medical emergency, so I hope everything is ok!
Anyway, I walked in and 13 Muses was on. The first song I heard was all growly and I was hoping that wasn’t all they were. I like growls and screaming, but not when that’s all there is. I want to hear some melodic lyrics and guitar and some cool bass and pounding drums, too. Turns out they had all that, too.
The songs that impressed me the most were the last two. “End of Days” and then one they dedicated to a friend who died last week, “Afraid.”. That was a real tearjerker, but a damn good song. Sort of slow and very emotional. I think that’s when a song is the most powerful...when a strong emotion is evoked and everyone can feel it emanating out. The crowd definitely went crazy on this one. I almost felt a little misty myself and I didn’t even know this girl.
Next up was Brotherhood. These guys have a good time! I have never seen so much smiling in a heavy show before. They’re going to have a good time, and dammit, you better have one, too. At one point, the singer asked if everyone was having a good time and the response was lame. He was like, “What the fuck?! You’re out! You spent money. Why don’t you fucking yell?!” And everyone seemed to realize he was right. We’re out! We’re having a good time! We’re drinking beer! We should fucking shout! And we did.
BrotherhoodNext up was Lokey. I’ve reviewed them before and I always love these guys! You just don’t get much more balls out hyper energy than this. Terry Anderson may be small, and he makes fun of that himself, but the energy he puts out is HUGE! There was hair-dancing galore! These guys have been around forever and they know how it’s done! I remember doing promo’s for them back when I did the website for Odyssey. They love San Antonio and they rave about that in their show. They love us, we love them. There wasn’t a person there who didn’t shout out their name.
Lokey - this guy makes great crazy faces, but I never could catch one - oh well
Last up was Before the Bloodshed. And while I have to say that this was the most entertaining segment of the night, they were actually my least favorite band. Almost all the vocals were screaming and I just don’t see the talent in screaming everything. And I wasn’t the only one. Others around me were happy when the sound cut out. I saw one guys plugging his ears. But danm, theses guys had half the club up on the stage with them, singing, dancing, moshing. There was a bikini contest going on, which, as a woman, I would have to call one of the most pathetic things I’ve ever seen. These pretty girls were told they needed to go around the club and impress people while the band played and they had to dance around the stage and be sexy. Even Terry Anderson said that he didn’t like it because the girls had to humiliate themselves to win. And it was humiliating. Not that they weren’t beautiful. They just shouldn’t have had to debase themselves like that. But, hey, if they were willing to do that...more power, I guess. Hopefully they really needed the money.
Before the BloodshedADDED NOTE: Here's one place I should clarify. Before the Bloodshed is very good at what they do. Great showmanship, great energy. If you DO like this kind of music, these guys are definitely worth checking out.
Really, it was a great night, if for no other reason than that everyone was there. Suzi from Suzi’s Rock Page. Jen from The Scene. Toni from The Edge...she took pics of the bikini contest, so I guess check that out. So many people from other bands. I know there were members of Pitbull Daycare in the house. Randy Bonillas from KISS. It was like who’s who of SA Rock. At one point, Suzi bet me she could pick up Nancy Silva and she did! Nancy is fucking TINY! Cool chick, though!
I ended the night talking to one of the guys from BrokenSeal, who couldn’t understand why I am leery of going down to The Rabbit or Bonds alone. He thinks I should own a gun, but I am very against guns due to the fact that when they’re used, statistics show they’re usually not used against criminals, but accidentally used against family members, people you know, etc. He thinks I should at least carry Mace or pepper spray or whatever. I told him I generally rely on my temper and that I take as my example Kwai Chang Caine from Kung Fu. He is my hero. This guy has never watched Kung Fu, so I told him he needs to spend some time with Kung Fu to understand my point of view. We had a deep drunken conversation about this in the parking lot.
ADDED NOTE: What good would a gun do me? I couldn't carry it from my car to a club. You can't take a gun into a club. It's illegal to carry a gun in a place that serves alcohol.
SECOND ADDED NOTE: I know that this conversation doesn't make complete sense, but I'm pretty sure that's actually how it went, lol. So I can't lie. I was a-buzzin!
Great night. I love this place. We still have the debate going on whether the drum kit sticking out of the wall at Sneakers was first Peter Criss or Tommy Lee. I think it was Peter Criss first, then Tommy Lee. But I’ve been told I’m wrong. Terry Anderson only remembers it as being Tommy Lee and no one else .So does Troy. But I know at some point it was Peter Criss.
Randy, who judged the Rock City Battle of the Bands with me and Suzi, agrees with me that it was Peter Criss first.
ADDED NOTE: Ok, Fred has schooled me. (Check the comments.) It was Tommy Lee first. In my defense, I did LOTS of shots at Sneakers!! Seriously, as I mentioned in the comments, I think I remember it backwards just because it would have made more sense, music-timeline-wise.
Also, speaking of Sneakers, the DJ came out with a list of all the bands that have played that stage....White Zombie,. STP, Alice in Chains, Ted Nugent, Pat Travers, Montrose, Rob Halford...on and on...he said it was hallowed ground. Fuck yeah.
I’ve seen probably half the bands he mentioned there. The Offspring, Blue Oyster Cult, Sam Kinnison right before he died (OOH OOOOHHH!) The history of the place just haunts the place. For those of you too young to have experienced it....I think you can still feel the vibe there. There were definitely some youngsters there tonight that seemed to feel the reverence that the place is due!
Sunday, July 8, 2007
Electric Ocean and Eden Burning
Photos courtesy of Hot Spots of San Antonio (my batteries died - thanks, guys!)
So, Thursday July 5th I headed out to Sneakers Kristal to check out Electric Ocean and Eden Burning. Naturally I was late, so I missed the opening band...Bailey Drive or something like that (someone correct me on this). I hear they're a new band and good, so sorry I missed them. Also, there was originally supposed to be a Judas Priest tribute band called Sad Wings of Destiny playing, but they had to cancel. I was bummed about this because I love Judas Priest and was looking forward to hearing some (plus they're named after my favorite Priest album), but...some other time I guess.
Eden Burning
I got there just in time for Eden Burning to start. Now, I've been aware of who Phil Salazar (singer/guitarist) is for quite a while, but I don't think I've ever seen him with a band, although he did look familiar to me. So did the lead guitarist Johnny Rod, but I'm really thinking he used to hang out at Wizards when I worked there...but I could be wrong (I often am). Anyway, point being that I did have an inkling of what to expect: semi-old-school hard rockin' and that's pretty much what I got.
Phil and Johnny from Eden Burning
Now, sometimes I seem to have my own definition of what a term means, so I'll clarify. To me, "old school" means hard but melodic with cool guitar solos and shit. These guys were like that, with a little punk thrown into the mix. They also have good stage presence. There wasn't a huge crowd there, but these guys treated us like we were a huge crowd nonetheless. I hate it when a band underperforms because the crowd is small. I understand it, but I don't like it. I think if I pay to see a band, I deserve the best they can give. And that's what I got from Eden Burning. Good job.
During Eden Burning, I ran into Suzi from Suzi's Rock Page and the guys from HotSpots and a friend of Electric Ocean, whom I previously met at Tiffany's, and damn I can't remember his name but he always reminds me of Joe Walsh, lol. It was nice to see everyone out and nice to not have to hang out all alone for once!
Electric Ocean
Anyway, next up was Electric Ocean. Now Ben (singer/guitarist) was nice enough to show up for our Virgo Bash back in September and also partied with Kel and me at a Killing Floor show at Tiffany's (with his wonderful sweet wife). What always impresses me about Ben is he always seems happy and enthusiastic and likes to think big. Lots of fun.
Nelson of Electric Ocean
So I wasn't surprised to find that Electric Ocean live perfectly reflects Ben's personality. Big and enthusiastic. Huge light show. The music is a wall of sound. Not overwhelming, but big. Rockin' but very melodic. Ben was having a lot of trouble with the sound. He couldn't hear himself in the monitors and his voice wasn't coming out very loud in the mix, so I can't really comment on the vocals much since I couldn't hear them very well. I liked their drummer because he knows how to beat the crap out of his drums. I like that hard-hitting drumming. Good stuff. And the lead guitarist (Ben's step-dad, keeping it in the family is always cool), billed on their MySpace page as "Nelson Broyal- Lead Guitar/ Slasher!" is a damn good guitarist. I couldn't really hear him for the first song or two, but then they fixed that and I was like, "Damn!" - very impressive.
Me and Suzi
When the show was over, I scored some swag...CD's from both bands and an Electric Ocean tee. Finally met Phil Salazar. The night ended with me, Suzi, Phil and Ben, a bunch of old Sneakers-heads, sitting around reminiscing about the days of Sneakers. The walls - that big ass clown from Dangerous Toys, Peter Criss later changed to Tommy Lee with the drum set sticking out of the wall. The music - heavy stuff that you could actually dance to - Nine Inch Nails, Marilyn Manson, White Zombie, Megadeth "Symphony of Destruction," Pantera "Walk," etc. Good stuff, good times!
So, Thursday July 5th I headed out to Sneakers Kristal to check out Electric Ocean and Eden Burning. Naturally I was late, so I missed the opening band...Bailey Drive or something like that (someone correct me on this). I hear they're a new band and good, so sorry I missed them. Also, there was originally supposed to be a Judas Priest tribute band called Sad Wings of Destiny playing, but they had to cancel. I was bummed about this because I love Judas Priest and was looking forward to hearing some (plus they're named after my favorite Priest album), but...some other time I guess.
Eden BurningI got there just in time for Eden Burning to start. Now, I've been aware of who Phil Salazar (singer/guitarist) is for quite a while, but I don't think I've ever seen him with a band, although he did look familiar to me. So did the lead guitarist Johnny Rod, but I'm really thinking he used to hang out at Wizards when I worked there...but I could be wrong (I often am). Anyway, point being that I did have an inkling of what to expect: semi-old-school hard rockin' and that's pretty much what I got.
Phil and Johnny from Eden BurningNow, sometimes I seem to have my own definition of what a term means, so I'll clarify. To me, "old school" means hard but melodic with cool guitar solos and shit. These guys were like that, with a little punk thrown into the mix. They also have good stage presence. There wasn't a huge crowd there, but these guys treated us like we were a huge crowd nonetheless. I hate it when a band underperforms because the crowd is small. I understand it, but I don't like it. I think if I pay to see a band, I deserve the best they can give. And that's what I got from Eden Burning. Good job.
During Eden Burning, I ran into Suzi from Suzi's Rock Page and the guys from HotSpots and a friend of Electric Ocean, whom I previously met at Tiffany's, and damn I can't remember his name but he always reminds me of Joe Walsh, lol. It was nice to see everyone out and nice to not have to hang out all alone for once!
Electric OceanAnyway, next up was Electric Ocean. Now Ben (singer/guitarist) was nice enough to show up for our Virgo Bash back in September and also partied with Kel and me at a Killing Floor show at Tiffany's (with his wonderful sweet wife). What always impresses me about Ben is he always seems happy and enthusiastic and likes to think big. Lots of fun.
Nelson of Electric OceanSo I wasn't surprised to find that Electric Ocean live perfectly reflects Ben's personality. Big and enthusiastic. Huge light show. The music is a wall of sound. Not overwhelming, but big. Rockin' but very melodic. Ben was having a lot of trouble with the sound. He couldn't hear himself in the monitors and his voice wasn't coming out very loud in the mix, so I can't really comment on the vocals much since I couldn't hear them very well. I liked their drummer because he knows how to beat the crap out of his drums. I like that hard-hitting drumming. Good stuff. And the lead guitarist (Ben's step-dad, keeping it in the family is always cool), billed on their MySpace page as "Nelson Broyal- Lead Guitar/ Slasher!" is a damn good guitarist. I couldn't really hear him for the first song or two, but then they fixed that and I was like, "Damn!" - very impressive.
Me and SuziWhen the show was over, I scored some swag...CD's from both bands and an Electric Ocean tee. Finally met Phil Salazar. The night ended with me, Suzi, Phil and Ben, a bunch of old Sneakers-heads, sitting around reminiscing about the days of Sneakers. The walls - that big ass clown from Dangerous Toys, Peter Criss later changed to Tommy Lee with the drum set sticking out of the wall. The music - heavy stuff that you could actually dance to - Nine Inch Nails, Marilyn Manson, White Zombie, Megadeth "Symphony of Destruction," Pantera "Walk," etc. Good stuff, good times!
Monday, July 2, 2007
Bad Breath at BoozeHounds....I mean Swampmouth...
As some of you may know, I have been very impressed with a local cover band called Texas Special. So, when they told me that they were working on originals, I couldn’t wait to hear what they came up with.
Well, a while back they informed me of their original band’s name...Swampmouth. Then they put up some recordings on MySpace, and I was duly impressed. Then I went just to hang out with Texas Special and friends, and they gave me a Swampmouth CD. As I understand it, this was a fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants effort...done in very little time, lyrics written on the way to the studio kind of thing. And yet it sounds damn good. So, when they told me they would be performing at BoozeHounds (as you probably know, my fave neighborhood hangout) on the 30th, I made plans to go.
So, I get there and there is an opening band. Dawn of Stereo. I had no idea what to expect of this band. The name sounded vaguely familiar and that was about it. Now, I’m going to try my best to say this diplomatically...they were bad. But not without hope. I don’t have much of an opinion on the drummer and bass player...they were...well, basic. The singer/guitarist, on the other hand, is the crux of the deal. The boy has talent...but it’s very unpolished.
First of all, I can’t say what kind of music they play. At times, it was rock . At times, it was almost country. At one point, he introduced a blues lick, then went right out of it. There was much use of what I think is called a sequencer? That in-and-out kind of guitar noise? If I had to pinpoint it, I’d call them simply Texas rock, I supppose. There was one song with two guitar solos where one reminded me of Bob Seger and the next reminded me of Lynyrd Skynyrd.
The singer was pretty good on guitar, but his voice is the focus and the problem. In the lower ranges, he sounds great. In the higher range, with lots of “Woah-woah-ohs” his voice is whiny and often out of key. I hate to say it, but within their first two songs, they managed to clear out half the bar.
And yet, I think that...they are young...and given time and experience and practice...they might be very good. I think they need to focus on a direction, for one thing. What kind of music do they want to play?
Their MySpace page describes them thus: “Mixing 60's garage with the neo psychedellia of the 80's - the power pop fundamentals of "The Jam" and early 90's college radio” And that’s about right. It’s all over the place.
Bobby Aguilar (the singer/guitarist) has talent. But it is as yet unrefined. I want to hear these guys in 5 years.
Anyway, when they were done, Swampmouth took the stage. Their first and second set were mostly Swampmouth originals...bluesy southern rock at its finest. They surprised me a couple times with original songs that were way more rock than what I expected of them. But I suppose I shouldn’t be so surprised. I’ve spoken with these guys about music several times and I know that while singer/guitarist James Ponder is into blues and Southern rock, his brother and bassist Brad is something of a headbanger, and if I remember right, drummer Delrick is a jazz enthusiast. So there are all kinds of interesting influences mixed in there.
Their third set was the most interesting to me. At this point, after many beers and quite a few shots of Tequila, they focused on providing us with some cover requests. There were a group of people, all in black t-shirts and celebrating a birthday, who were a little rambunctious and wanted to hear some Black Sabbath and Ted Nugent and Slayer. The boys did their best to oblige.
As Texas Special, they already do “War Pigs” so that wasn’t a problem. And evidently, they are used to this group’s requests for Slayer and had worked up, as a joke, a jazz version of a Slayer song (and sorry, but I’m not a big Slayer fan, so I can’t tell you much about this, except that I’m not sure anyone else got the joke). But the funnest and funniest part was in fulfilling the request for “Stranglehold.” When they agreed to play it, Brad blatantly admitted that they had no experience with this song. It started out with the normal Stranglehold beginning, and then they got to the solo. James went wild, slinging his guitar around, playing with one hand, slamming it down on the ground, totally abusing it. And I’m laughing my ass off, because, great as this is, it sounds NOTHING like Stranglehold, but it’s one of the most enthusiastic guitar solos I’ve ever heard!
Finally, when he’s crouching down on the stage, guitar lying on the floor in front of him, he’s pounding it up and down by the strings...I think he’s realized that he’s gone as far as he can without actually playing the song and just stops...mid-solo...none of the “C’mon, c’mon up” part or anything. I was dying laughing.
And then they did something that touched me. Last time I saw them as Texas Special, I mentioned a song that I thought they would like and that I thought they would do an awesome job of covering...”Cottonfields and Crossroads” by Los Lonely Boys. James did his homework, checked out the song and other works by the band, and they learned the song and played it especially for me. They did an awesome job! I was in “Heaven.”
They finished up with a kickass jam of “Moby Dick” by Led Zeppelin. James took over drum duty, with Delrick and Brad on bongos. I love this kind of off-the-wall jam and totally wished I’d brought my bongos with me! Awesome fun night!
Oh, and one last note: Scotty, I’m sorry I killed your good luck (in the form of a cricket) but dammit, it was ON ME!!!! I just have a serious bugaphobia!!!
I have a video of this night, but I am fighting with my software and will have it up ASAP!
Well, a while back they informed me of their original band’s name...Swampmouth. Then they put up some recordings on MySpace, and I was duly impressed. Then I went just to hang out with Texas Special and friends, and they gave me a Swampmouth CD. As I understand it, this was a fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants effort...done in very little time, lyrics written on the way to the studio kind of thing. And yet it sounds damn good. So, when they told me they would be performing at BoozeHounds (as you probably know, my fave neighborhood hangout) on the 30th, I made plans to go.
So, I get there and there is an opening band. Dawn of Stereo. I had no idea what to expect of this band. The name sounded vaguely familiar and that was about it. Now, I’m going to try my best to say this diplomatically...they were bad. But not without hope. I don’t have much of an opinion on the drummer and bass player...they were...well, basic. The singer/guitarist, on the other hand, is the crux of the deal. The boy has talent...but it’s very unpolished.
First of all, I can’t say what kind of music they play. At times, it was rock . At times, it was almost country. At one point, he introduced a blues lick, then went right out of it. There was much use of what I think is called a sequencer? That in-and-out kind of guitar noise? If I had to pinpoint it, I’d call them simply Texas rock, I supppose. There was one song with two guitar solos where one reminded me of Bob Seger and the next reminded me of Lynyrd Skynyrd.
The singer was pretty good on guitar, but his voice is the focus and the problem. In the lower ranges, he sounds great. In the higher range, with lots of “Woah-woah-ohs” his voice is whiny and often out of key. I hate to say it, but within their first two songs, they managed to clear out half the bar.
And yet, I think that...they are young...and given time and experience and practice...they might be very good. I think they need to focus on a direction, for one thing. What kind of music do they want to play?
Their MySpace page describes them thus: “Mixing 60's garage with the neo psychedellia of the 80's - the power pop fundamentals of "The Jam" and early 90's college radio” And that’s about right. It’s all over the place.
Bobby Aguilar (the singer/guitarist) has talent. But it is as yet unrefined. I want to hear these guys in 5 years.
Anyway, when they were done, Swampmouth took the stage. Their first and second set were mostly Swampmouth originals...bluesy southern rock at its finest. They surprised me a couple times with original songs that were way more rock than what I expected of them. But I suppose I shouldn’t be so surprised. I’ve spoken with these guys about music several times and I know that while singer/guitarist James Ponder is into blues and Southern rock, his brother and bassist Brad is something of a headbanger, and if I remember right, drummer Delrick is a jazz enthusiast. So there are all kinds of interesting influences mixed in there.
Their third set was the most interesting to me. At this point, after many beers and quite a few shots of Tequila, they focused on providing us with some cover requests. There were a group of people, all in black t-shirts and celebrating a birthday, who were a little rambunctious and wanted to hear some Black Sabbath and Ted Nugent and Slayer. The boys did their best to oblige.
As Texas Special, they already do “War Pigs” so that wasn’t a problem. And evidently, they are used to this group’s requests for Slayer and had worked up, as a joke, a jazz version of a Slayer song (and sorry, but I’m not a big Slayer fan, so I can’t tell you much about this, except that I’m not sure anyone else got the joke). But the funnest and funniest part was in fulfilling the request for “Stranglehold.” When they agreed to play it, Brad blatantly admitted that they had no experience with this song. It started out with the normal Stranglehold beginning, and then they got to the solo. James went wild, slinging his guitar around, playing with one hand, slamming it down on the ground, totally abusing it. And I’m laughing my ass off, because, great as this is, it sounds NOTHING like Stranglehold, but it’s one of the most enthusiastic guitar solos I’ve ever heard!
Finally, when he’s crouching down on the stage, guitar lying on the floor in front of him, he’s pounding it up and down by the strings...I think he’s realized that he’s gone as far as he can without actually playing the song and just stops...mid-solo...none of the “C’mon, c’mon up” part or anything. I was dying laughing.
And then they did something that touched me. Last time I saw them as Texas Special, I mentioned a song that I thought they would like and that I thought they would do an awesome job of covering...”Cottonfields and Crossroads” by Los Lonely Boys. James did his homework, checked out the song and other works by the band, and they learned the song and played it especially for me. They did an awesome job! I was in “Heaven.”
They finished up with a kickass jam of “Moby Dick” by Led Zeppelin. James took over drum duty, with Delrick and Brad on bongos. I love this kind of off-the-wall jam and totally wished I’d brought my bongos with me! Awesome fun night!
Oh, and one last note: Scotty, I’m sorry I killed your good luck (in the form of a cricket) but dammit, it was ON ME!!!! I just have a serious bugaphobia!!!
I have a video of this night, but I am fighting with my software and will have it up ASAP!
Monday, June 4, 2007
Texas Rocks Shakespeare
My friend and I went down to the Botanical Gardens Friday night to see the Shakespeare in the Park production of "The Taming of the Shrew." This is one of my favorites of the Bard's plays. Very funny, as long as you're temporarily willing to put up with the idea that women should be subservient to their men (ha!).
Now, I know, I know, you're asking yourself, "Why is Rowan writing a review of a Shakespearean play on a music blog?" I'll get to that. Just roll with it.
One of the coolest things about this production was that, although it was in Shakespearean English, instead of taking place in Padua, it takes place in San Antonio, and the people come from the Valley and Eagle Pass and Austin. The characters also wore modern clothing, in styles you are likely to see here in SA, such as a guayabera.
Another cool thing about the play was that, in between songs, they played contemporary music, in a variety of styles. Several times, I thought to myself, "This is a pretty cool song. I wonder who it's by."
Well, as it turns out, there is a reason these songs were so cool! When I got home and looked over my program, I found this:
The backdrops for the play were also Texas-flavored, featuring "El Sol" and "La Guitarra" and "Pollo" with pictures of each (sun, guitar, chicken), and original artwork by local artist Chris Boneta was being auctioned off near the front of the park.
I really enjoyed the way they added local flavor to this production. Very novel and well-done. And I enjoyed the music immensely.
I give it five habaneros!
Five habaneros also to Papa Wood, who was playing at BoozeHounds, where we went afterwards. You guys rocked as usual!! And Hi to Jerry, who said he reads SA Rocks every day, and to Lee from Ulterior Motive, whom I finally got to meet in person!
Now, I know, I know, you're asking yourself, "Why is Rowan writing a review of a Shakespearean play on a music blog?" I'll get to that. Just roll with it.
One of the coolest things about this production was that, although it was in Shakespearean English, instead of taking place in Padua, it takes place in San Antonio, and the people come from the Valley and Eagle Pass and Austin. The characters also wore modern clothing, in styles you are likely to see here in SA, such as a guayabera.
Another cool thing about the play was that, in between songs, they played contemporary music, in a variety of styles. Several times, I thought to myself, "This is a pretty cool song. I wonder who it's by."
Well, as it turns out, there is a reason these songs were so cool! When I got home and looked over my program, I found this:
The music used in this production is the work of local and Texas artists including...: Jon Dee Graham, Claude Morgan and the Blast, Flaco Jimenez, True Stories, Buttercup, Patricia Vonne, Los #3 Dinners, Rosie Flores, Mingo Fishtrap, Aztex, Eric Hisaw, The Lavens, Big Melvis and the Tonedaddies, Kelli King and the Fritters, and the Earfood Orchestra. You may catch these talented folks live in San Antonio at a variety of venues. Support Live Music in San Antonio!
The backdrops for the play were also Texas-flavored, featuring "El Sol" and "La Guitarra" and "Pollo" with pictures of each (sun, guitar, chicken), and original artwork by local artist Chris Boneta was being auctioned off near the front of the park.
I really enjoyed the way they added local flavor to this production. Very novel and well-done. And I enjoyed the music immensely.
I give it five habaneros!Five habaneros also to Papa Wood, who was playing at BoozeHounds, where we went afterwards. You guys rocked as usual!! And Hi to Jerry, who said he reads SA Rocks every day, and to Lee from Ulterior Motive, whom I finally got to meet in person!
Monday, May 28, 2007
Transfers, Ledaswan, Fin del Mar, & Eye of the Mourning
On May 5th, I made it out to the Rock Bottom Tattoo Bar to check out some more local music; three of these bands I’d seen before while the fourth was actually playing their first-ever show! Transfers and Ledaswan I first caught over a year ago on the same bill at Ruta Maya. And although stylistically different, both bands were similar in their search for sounds and songs away from the typical rock pantheon. The fantastic Fin del Mar was actually mentioned (it was more like a blurb) on the first review I ever did for this blog almost two years ago(!) and I was impressed then as I am now by their devotion to putting technique and ego aside for the benefit of creating some truly inspiring instrumental rock. New to the scene was Eye of the Mourning, a new/old band with several San Antonio music scene veterans who play it loud and loose but never lets the heaviness of the music get in the way of writing songs with great hooks and melodies. Anyhow, all this and a bag of chips went on at the Rock Bottom Tattoo Bar as I decided to get the review done and take some pictures.
First off, major props have to go out to the Rock Bottom Tattoo Bar for their efforts to make this a competitively viable San Antonio music club. Not that there was anything wrong with the place when it was formerly known as the Lounge at Avenue B; However, credit must be given to the people who have really put some time and investment towards improving the place. One major difference would have to be the new and larger stage taking up the south end of the club on the elevated floor with a massive speaker and PA system with improved lighting. Another room has also been opened up with pool tables leading to an outside/inside fenced-in area allowing for more breathing room and elbow space.
Transfers
Transfers, the first band of the evening, got things off to a fantastic start with their ethereal and combustive style of indie rock. Vocalist Brad has to be one of the best local guitarists around but in a way you may not imagine. You see, he doesn’t play dive bomb solos or blaze through scales at lightning speed. Rather, though the use of open chords, sometimes with a capo, Brad uses light distortion and effects with an aggressive, almost percussive, strumming style that results in almost keyboard-like effect that literally washes the listener with sound. Not that the other members are slouches, as they, the rhythm section, rooted everything with a punk rock urgency that keep things propelling forward. This unique and exhilarating combination could be best heard on their new track "Rotations" which had everyone in the room agape at the song's angularity and precision with vocals being shared by both Brad and bassist Naomi.
Transfers
Ledaswan
Ledaswan was next and played a set that displayed their unique style of alternative rock with true rock and roll bombast added for flavor. Led by singer/guitarist Erica, the band reminded me of the big guitar hooks and intelligent lyrics of the 90s alternative nation—bands such as the Smashing Pumpkins, Hole, and Collective Soul, among others. However, the band does have more influences than what you would find on the Singles soundtrack and, with the help of guitarist Jaime and drummer Delrick, also adds a bit of rock and roll crunch to the sound. Erica and bassist Amanda, who I actually thought were sisters, occasionally share vocals and complement each other very well, especially on a song like "Discover." And despite what images the title may conjure up, the song "Stupid Person" was the perfect marriage between the band's rock and alternative styles and was, I think, the best representation of what the band had to offer. Gentle and shimmering, this song steps off the accelerator and allows this near-ballad room to breathe and give Erica's vocals as well as everyone's musicianship a chance to shine.
Ledaswan
Fin Del Mar
And speaking of teamwork, Fin del Mar was the perfect example of how four talented musicians can work together to lift the music—in this case instrumental rock—to a higher level of aural experience. Utilizing the typical rock combo, is this case two guitars, bass and drums, the group strays from the conventional rock song format; The songs could been seen as suites or chapters with each song is less than an exercise in verse each having their own characteristic or thematic exploration. Of course, it all boils down to the songs and the band was mindful enough to keep this in mind as the most important thing. Although they were all fantastic musicians with professional equipment (check out that awesome Gretsch drum set!) there were no real soloists in this band. Additionally, time changes and odd meters were not purposely thrown in for the heck of impressing (or disorienting) the listener. Fin del Mar's strength lies in the ability to let their instrumentals naturally and urgently fold and unfold within the listener’s mind, leaving you to conjure up whatever thoughts you wish to toss into the stream of music floating throughout the room.
Fin Del Mar
Eye of the Mourning
Although it was their first-ever show, Eye of the Mourning closed the evening to a captive and supportive audience. This new band definitely has something new and exciting to offer the local hard rock music scene with their up tempo punk-influenced songs and bass-heavy grooves. Eye of the Mourning plays hard rock and roll with a guitar tone that was heavy, but not abrasive, and tore through their set like seasoned professionals; the songs, simple and straight-to-the-point, were easily memorable and relied on melody as well as heaviness. Thankfully, lead singer Holly refrained from singing in a growling heavier vocal style to match the aggression of the music and instead sang in a more natural voice—the added melody and her charisma definitely gives this band a unique style that definitely shines on a song like "Immortal," which I understand was written by way of tribute to the memory and music of Forever Is Never singer Jason. Pretty cool. With a stop for drinks (it was the bassist’s 21st birthday, after all), a Sparta cover and a few more songs, Eye of the Mourning finished their set proving that for a new band, they were more than willing and more than able to deliver the goods live.
Eye of the Mourning
Note: I try to get these reviews done within a week, at least before the next wave of shows, so if I missed out on mentioning any gigs that occured these past three weeks,I do apologize in advance...
Rock Bottom Tattoo Bar
Transfers
No shows currently listed
Ledaswan
Jun 1, 2007 10pm Bonds 007
Jun 5, 2007 9pm Atomix
Jun 23, 2007 9pm Rock Bottom Tattoo Bar
Fin del Mar
No shows currently listed
Eye of the Mourning
Jun 5, 2007 9pm Atomix
First off, major props have to go out to the Rock Bottom Tattoo Bar for their efforts to make this a competitively viable San Antonio music club. Not that there was anything wrong with the place when it was formerly known as the Lounge at Avenue B; However, credit must be given to the people who have really put some time and investment towards improving the place. One major difference would have to be the new and larger stage taking up the south end of the club on the elevated floor with a massive speaker and PA system with improved lighting. Another room has also been opened up with pool tables leading to an outside/inside fenced-in area allowing for more breathing room and elbow space.
Transfers
Transfers, the first band of the evening, got things off to a fantastic start with their ethereal and combustive style of indie rock. Vocalist Brad has to be one of the best local guitarists around but in a way you may not imagine. You see, he doesn’t play dive bomb solos or blaze through scales at lightning speed. Rather, though the use of open chords, sometimes with a capo, Brad uses light distortion and effects with an aggressive, almost percussive, strumming style that results in almost keyboard-like effect that literally washes the listener with sound. Not that the other members are slouches, as they, the rhythm section, rooted everything with a punk rock urgency that keep things propelling forward. This unique and exhilarating combination could be best heard on their new track "Rotations" which had everyone in the room agape at the song's angularity and precision with vocals being shared by both Brad and bassist Naomi.
Transfers
Ledaswan
Ledaswan was next and played a set that displayed their unique style of alternative rock with true rock and roll bombast added for flavor. Led by singer/guitarist Erica, the band reminded me of the big guitar hooks and intelligent lyrics of the 90s alternative nation—bands such as the Smashing Pumpkins, Hole, and Collective Soul, among others. However, the band does have more influences than what you would find on the Singles soundtrack and, with the help of guitarist Jaime and drummer Delrick, also adds a bit of rock and roll crunch to the sound. Erica and bassist Amanda, who I actually thought were sisters, occasionally share vocals and complement each other very well, especially on a song like "Discover." And despite what images the title may conjure up, the song "Stupid Person" was the perfect marriage between the band's rock and alternative styles and was, I think, the best representation of what the band had to offer. Gentle and shimmering, this song steps off the accelerator and allows this near-ballad room to breathe and give Erica's vocals as well as everyone's musicianship a chance to shine.
Ledaswan
Fin Del Mar
And speaking of teamwork, Fin del Mar was the perfect example of how four talented musicians can work together to lift the music—in this case instrumental rock—to a higher level of aural experience. Utilizing the typical rock combo, is this case two guitars, bass and drums, the group strays from the conventional rock song format; The songs could been seen as suites or chapters with each song is less than an exercise in verse each having their own characteristic or thematic exploration. Of course, it all boils down to the songs and the band was mindful enough to keep this in mind as the most important thing. Although they were all fantastic musicians with professional equipment (check out that awesome Gretsch drum set!) there were no real soloists in this band. Additionally, time changes and odd meters were not purposely thrown in for the heck of impressing (or disorienting) the listener. Fin del Mar's strength lies in the ability to let their instrumentals naturally and urgently fold and unfold within the listener’s mind, leaving you to conjure up whatever thoughts you wish to toss into the stream of music floating throughout the room.
Fin Del Mar
Eye of the Mourning
Although it was their first-ever show, Eye of the Mourning closed the evening to a captive and supportive audience. This new band definitely has something new and exciting to offer the local hard rock music scene with their up tempo punk-influenced songs and bass-heavy grooves. Eye of the Mourning plays hard rock and roll with a guitar tone that was heavy, but not abrasive, and tore through their set like seasoned professionals; the songs, simple and straight-to-the-point, were easily memorable and relied on melody as well as heaviness. Thankfully, lead singer Holly refrained from singing in a growling heavier vocal style to match the aggression of the music and instead sang in a more natural voice—the added melody and her charisma definitely gives this band a unique style that definitely shines on a song like "Immortal," which I understand was written by way of tribute to the memory and music of Forever Is Never singer Jason. Pretty cool. With a stop for drinks (it was the bassist’s 21st birthday, after all), a Sparta cover and a few more songs, Eye of the Mourning finished their set proving that for a new band, they were more than willing and more than able to deliver the goods live.
Eye of the Mourning
Note: I try to get these reviews done within a week, at least before the next wave of shows, so if I missed out on mentioning any gigs that occured these past three weeks,I do apologize in advance...
Shows and Links
Rock Bottom Tattoo Bar
Transfers
No shows currently listed
Ledaswan
Jun 1, 2007 10pm Bonds 007
Jun 5, 2007 9pm Atomix
Jun 23, 2007 9pm Rock Bottom Tattoo Bar
Fin del Mar
No shows currently listed
Eye of the Mourning
Jun 5, 2007 9pm Atomix
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Wow, Tool Actually Showed Up!!
So I finally got to see Tool!
Tell you what, though...maybe this isn't true for everyone, I don't know, but it seems to have been true for me.
When, after I posted this pathetic post back in July 2006, I was so freakin' excited when Kel felt sorry for me and bought us all tickets to go to the concert. Well, September came and Tool rescheduled. Then that show came near and I got pretty excited again. Then Tool rescheduled again. Then May came and the new date was near...and dammit, I just couldn't seem to dredge up the same excitement for a third time.
I have no idea why that is. I love Tool no less than I loved them before. Maybe it's just difficult to keep getting excited and disappointed. I don't know.
Anyway, after the second cancellation, Kel refunded her tickets, but insisted I keep mine. So we went. No cameras were allowed so I don't have any pics of the show (unless one of you many people snapping them with your cell phones want to send me some).
I'm glad I went. We had a good time. It was great to finally get to see Tool live. Kinda reminded me of when I saw Pink Floyd live...there's so much cool stuff on the screens, you kinda forget to watch the actual band. Fractal and plasma patterns, space scenery, and of course those freaky figures that are always in the Tool videos doing freaky things.
We didn't stay for the whole show, unfortunately, for several reasons:
Oh, we also got a Spurs cup with the soda. Bonus, eh?
Anyway, I wish we could have caught the whole show. I didn't get to hear "Sober," but I did get to hear "Schism," and those are my 2 favorite Tool songs. It was worth it. Thanks, Kel!!!!
I also found this in the comments on a post on here. Someone else's Tool experience:
Tell you what, though...maybe this isn't true for everyone, I don't know, but it seems to have been true for me.
When, after I posted this pathetic post back in July 2006, I was so freakin' excited when Kel felt sorry for me and bought us all tickets to go to the concert. Well, September came and Tool rescheduled. Then that show came near and I got pretty excited again. Then Tool rescheduled again. Then May came and the new date was near...and dammit, I just couldn't seem to dredge up the same excitement for a third time.
I have no idea why that is. I love Tool no less than I loved them before. Maybe it's just difficult to keep getting excited and disappointed. I don't know.
Anyway, after the second cancellation, Kel refunded her tickets, but insisted I keep mine. So we went. No cameras were allowed so I don't have any pics of the show (unless one of you many people snapping them with your cell phones want to send me some).
I'm glad I went. We had a good time. It was great to finally get to see Tool live. Kinda reminded me of when I saw Pink Floyd live...there's so much cool stuff on the screens, you kinda forget to watch the actual band. Fractal and plasma patterns, space scenery, and of course those freaky figures that are always in the Tool videos doing freaky things.
We didn't stay for the whole show, unfortunately, for several reasons:
- I am deathly afraid of heights, and our tickets were top 0' the nosebleed. I honestly think, if I had stood up on my seat, I could have touched the ceiling of the AT&T Center. When, after 8 or 9 songs, I had to go down to the bathroom and saw the vendors packing everything up and figured the show must not be much longer, I couldn't bring myself to climb way back up there. I think, given my fear of heights, it was pretty brave of me to climb that high and remain that high up for as long as I did! Only for Tool!
- Being that it was a weeknight, we had to make sure we beat the crowds out. We just couldn't stay out as long as it would have taken for us to get home if we had to fight our way out of there.
- We couldn't afford to stay much longer financially! Those places just really gouge you! Even without paying for tickets, we spent more than $60 in the short time we were there. $10 for parking, almost $20 on drinks (that's 2 beers and a soda, btw) plus $38 for a t-shirt.
Oh, we also got a Spurs cup with the soda. Bonus, eh?Anyway, I wish we could have caught the whole show. I didn't get to hear "Sober," but I did get to hear "Schism," and those are my 2 favorite Tool songs. It was worth it. Thanks, Kel!!!!
I also found this in the comments on a post on here. Someone else's Tool experience:
I will start this off by saying that I am not a die-hard tool fan, but I can dig their music. Last night, with a group of great friends...we endured what few in San Antonio have had to endure.Anybody else want to share their experience at the show? Feel free to post in the comments or email me your story at rowanlafolle@gmail.com
A little background that I learned last night is that TOOL had cancelled the event twice!! First cause the lead singer lost his voice and the second because the drummer hurt his arm. If we lived in Las Vegas, they would have played through it. It wasn't like I heard a word from the lead singer last night anyway and the drummer was drowned out by the bad-ass guitar solos anyway too!
All in all, for them having cancelled on our fair city TWICE...you would expect an incredible show to make it up to their fans...they didn't deliver...
I had more fun buying their cool shirts and spent $250 at the souvenir stand. So needless to say, I won't expect much the next time they come around. We got in the car about 45 minutes before it was going to end, as did half the sold out crowd...and guess what was playing on the radio???
Yeah....TOOL!!! It sounded sooooo much better on the radio than in person...like night and day!
They should not only give refunds, but they should pay people to attend their next concert. Not free tickets, but give people a shirt if they show up to another flop concert.
The laser show was weak as well, and the most amusing part was the guy dropping acid a few rows ahead of me. Also, the girl who was using her cell phone as a light so her boyfriend could roll a joint was funny too. There was a lot of non-cigarette smoke in the air...and they frisked us all when we got close to the doors...go figure!
So, because of friends...the night was not lost. I am tired and hung over. I have some cool shirts and some unusual memories.
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Long Overdue: 'Hood Hoppin' and Sam's
FINALLY finished! Damn it's been a crazy time lately!
Whatever the hell night it was...a Friday many WEEKS ago...I went up to 321 Max to check out Ballistic. I didn't take my camera that night, so I have no proof, but take my word for it.
It's been so long now, I can't remember what songs they played, but they were good. A lot of the same songs that all the other cover bands play, but they did a good job of it, and hey, there's a reason all the bands play those songs, right? We like 'em.
And that was the busiest I've ever seen 321 Max. Usually when I go there, it's dead. It wasn't packed, but there were people there for once!
I had planned to hit 321 Max, then spin by Soho, where Papa Wood was playing, then head home. But on the way, my eye wandered over to BoozeHounds, where I hadn't been in a while. I swerved, and ended up at BoozeHounds.
I didn't know what band was playing and had to ask Scotty. Turns out it was the Sound Dogs. I was very pleasantly surprised. The Sound Dogs freakin' ROCK! I have seen no other band in town, cover band-wise, that plays what they do and people love it! Slayer, Megadeth, Metallica, all the heavy shit. And they do a great job of it!
I also ran into the guys from Texas Special there and Ron Jarzombek, and hung out for a while, but I definitely want to go spend a whole night with the Sound Dogs sometime soon!
I did finally make it over to Soho for a couple beers and hung out with Papa Wood. Always a great experience...and they usually buy me some beer :)
The guys from hotspotsofsanantonio.com were there, which always makes for a party. Oh yeah...I do have pictorial proof of that night...Hot Spots took a pic of me at Soho:
Great night, all in all.
Saturday, I headed over to Sam's for some more original music.
The Killing Floor killed as usual...I've reviewed them so many times, I hate to even mention them, but dammit, they're GOOD! And they didn't fail to impress me as always.
If I remember the order correctly, up next was Satantonio. I'd been wanting to see these guys for a while, mostly just cuz of the name. These guys were fun. Simple hard-driving Texas rock-n-roll with a little punk thrown in. The songs were short and simple and fast and about Texas man things...beer, food, sex. Good stuff. I enjoyed them quite a bit.
Next up, another band I'd been curious about, was Monkeysoop. I had listened to some of their stuff on MySpace and it sounded all tripped out and psychedelic and I wanted to see them live. Unfortunately, I was slightly disappointed. True, their stuff is tripped out and psychedelic and cool-sounding, but it's also...well, rather boring.
As much as I love a good instrumental, it gets monotonous when every song is just weird guitar riffs weaving in and out of a thumping rhythm. So, while I enjoy hearing a song or two from Monkeysoop, I'll have to say they're not my favorite band in concert.
The guy is a good guitarist, though. The female bass player also sang one song, not a Monkeysoop original, but surprisingly enough, Black Sabbath's "Never Say Die." It sounded OK. Actually I had to clarify with a friend what song it was. She announced it as Ozzy's "Never Say Die." I told my friend that I didn't think I knew that song. He explained that it was actually a Sabbath song. I said, "Oh, I know THAT song. That was supposed to be Sabbath's 'Never Say Die?'" So there ya' go. I didn't even recognize it.
I have to qualify my statements here by saying that some of my opinion may have been colored by the quality of the sound. It seemed that all of the instruments were at the same volume. So every song pretty much sounded like thundering bass and drum with the guitar buzzing around it like a bee. And I couldn't hear the girl's voice all that well for this same reason. Monkeysoop probably would have sounded a lot better with a different mix.
Oh, and the girl...I'm tired of calling her "the girl," let me look up her name...OK, Erica...she's also a good artist. They had some cool merchandise with her artwork on it. I was pretty broke, so all I could afford was a button, but I like it:
A fairy with a monkey tattooed on her ass. I had to have it.
Next was a band I had tried to see twice before, but failed both times. Once I couldn't make it and once they didn't make it. I'd listened to their stuff online and finally got to see them live: Tension Speak.
Here I was not disappointed at all. This is exactly my cup of tea. (Matter of fact, I'm listening to them right now.) Heavy, hard-driving metal...but melodic. Changing rhythms and tempos, not just the same nah-nah-nah-nah-nah-nah over and over. Every song doesn't sound the same. Lots of guitar. That's my favorite shit in the whole world. These guys were awesome. They blew the up-till-now mellow mood right out of the room.
Last up was Sintense, who I've seen many times before and reviewed. Also, I couldn't stay through their whole set, but I enjoyed them as always. My only comment will be this (and they won't be surprised): c'mon guys, do "Probandt" the original way...the cool thing about that song is the pounding rhythm...I just can't get into that mellower version. But that's just me...probably many other people like it that way. I still always love hearing you guys.
So, that was that weekend, however long ago...wait, let me look...OMG, that was in FEBRUARY! How the hell do I manage to fall so far behind? But, better late than never, I suppose...
Whatever the hell night it was...a Friday many WEEKS ago...I went up to 321 Max to check out Ballistic. I didn't take my camera that night, so I have no proof, but take my word for it.
It's been so long now, I can't remember what songs they played, but they were good. A lot of the same songs that all the other cover bands play, but they did a good job of it, and hey, there's a reason all the bands play those songs, right? We like 'em.
And that was the busiest I've ever seen 321 Max. Usually when I go there, it's dead. It wasn't packed, but there were people there for once!
I had planned to hit 321 Max, then spin by Soho, where Papa Wood was playing, then head home. But on the way, my eye wandered over to BoozeHounds, where I hadn't been in a while. I swerved, and ended up at BoozeHounds.
I didn't know what band was playing and had to ask Scotty. Turns out it was the Sound Dogs. I was very pleasantly surprised. The Sound Dogs freakin' ROCK! I have seen no other band in town, cover band-wise, that plays what they do and people love it! Slayer, Megadeth, Metallica, all the heavy shit. And they do a great job of it!
I also ran into the guys from Texas Special there and Ron Jarzombek, and hung out for a while, but I definitely want to go spend a whole night with the Sound Dogs sometime soon!
I did finally make it over to Soho for a couple beers and hung out with Papa Wood. Always a great experience...and they usually buy me some beer :)
The guys from hotspotsofsanantonio.com were there, which always makes for a party. Oh yeah...I do have pictorial proof of that night...Hot Spots took a pic of me at Soho:
Great night, all in all.
Saturday, I headed over to Sam's for some more original music.
The Killing Floor killed as usual...I've reviewed them so many times, I hate to even mention them, but dammit, they're GOOD! And they didn't fail to impress me as always.
If I remember the order correctly, up next was Satantonio. I'd been wanting to see these guys for a while, mostly just cuz of the name. These guys were fun. Simple hard-driving Texas rock-n-roll with a little punk thrown in. The songs were short and simple and fast and about Texas man things...beer, food, sex. Good stuff. I enjoyed them quite a bit.
Next up, another band I'd been curious about, was Monkeysoop. I had listened to some of their stuff on MySpace and it sounded all tripped out and psychedelic and I wanted to see them live. Unfortunately, I was slightly disappointed. True, their stuff is tripped out and psychedelic and cool-sounding, but it's also...well, rather boring.
As much as I love a good instrumental, it gets monotonous when every song is just weird guitar riffs weaving in and out of a thumping rhythm. So, while I enjoy hearing a song or two from Monkeysoop, I'll have to say they're not my favorite band in concert.
The guy is a good guitarist, though. The female bass player also sang one song, not a Monkeysoop original, but surprisingly enough, Black Sabbath's "Never Say Die." It sounded OK. Actually I had to clarify with a friend what song it was. She announced it as Ozzy's "Never Say Die." I told my friend that I didn't think I knew that song. He explained that it was actually a Sabbath song. I said, "Oh, I know THAT song. That was supposed to be Sabbath's 'Never Say Die?'" So there ya' go. I didn't even recognize it.
I have to qualify my statements here by saying that some of my opinion may have been colored by the quality of the sound. It seemed that all of the instruments were at the same volume. So every song pretty much sounded like thundering bass and drum with the guitar buzzing around it like a bee. And I couldn't hear the girl's voice all that well for this same reason. Monkeysoop probably would have sounded a lot better with a different mix.
Oh, and the girl...I'm tired of calling her "the girl," let me look up her name...OK, Erica...she's also a good artist. They had some cool merchandise with her artwork on it. I was pretty broke, so all I could afford was a button, but I like it:
A fairy with a monkey tattooed on her ass. I had to have it.
Next was a band I had tried to see twice before, but failed both times. Once I couldn't make it and once they didn't make it. I'd listened to their stuff online and finally got to see them live: Tension Speak.
Here I was not disappointed at all. This is exactly my cup of tea. (Matter of fact, I'm listening to them right now.) Heavy, hard-driving metal...but melodic. Changing rhythms and tempos, not just the same nah-nah-nah-nah-nah-nah over and over. Every song doesn't sound the same. Lots of guitar. That's my favorite shit in the whole world. These guys were awesome. They blew the up-till-now mellow mood right out of the room.
Last up was Sintense, who I've seen many times before and reviewed. Also, I couldn't stay through their whole set, but I enjoyed them as always. My only comment will be this (and they won't be surprised): c'mon guys, do "Probandt" the original way...the cool thing about that song is the pounding rhythm...I just can't get into that mellower version. But that's just me...probably many other people like it that way. I still always love hearing you guys.
So, that was that weekend, however long ago...wait, let me look...OMG, that was in FEBRUARY! How the hell do I manage to fall so far behind? But, better late than never, I suppose...
Monday, April 30, 2007
Euphoria at Broadway 5050
Perfect timing for this review of Euphoria to be sent to me. Thanks, Tom! - Rowan
I'm a frequent reader of the sarocks blog to get information about live music here in San Antonio. My wife and I love local live music and get out as often as we can. Thank you for having sarocks available for people like us.
The reason for this message is because we saw a band Saturday that blew us away. We both grew up in the 80's and when we saw a post for an 80's band we had to check it out. We were a bit skeptical at first after reading the comments, but we live close to Broadway so it wouldn't have been a big loss of our evening if we decided to leave. I'm glad we took the chance. These guys were amazing! The songs were right on. Not only did they play the songs that we used to love back then, they sounded like the original. The musicianship was second to none and above all, they were having a good time. My wife and I were totally blown away! We rarely dance but we couldn't help it. It was almost like being at prom again.
To conclude, the band I'm talking about is called Euphoria and I know this won't be the last time I check these guys out!
Thank you for your time.
Tom
Friday, April 6, 2007
Band Review GTB
By Diane
I stepped out a few weeks ago looking for something new and came across this 3 piece band playing at Martini Ranch on West Avenue. The name of the band is GTB, Get The Belt, I was pleasantly surprised in the depth of this small band. We had Leo on electric, great guy, on bass we had Pete Perez who actually had played with, and from what I understand still makes an appearance with RIOT every once in a while. Rene was on drums, you animal, I love people who just live for the moment, enjoy life and and are not affraid to laugh out loud. They also had a special guest, her name was Natalie Bowen, this young lady got the dance floor warmed up for the rest of us.There were a few technical difficulties but they handled it like pros and kept the show rolling.
This band is very entertaining, so when they come to a place near you take the time to go and check them out, you will not be disappointed. ROCK ON GUYS!
http://www.myspace.com/getthebelt
Mar 20 2007
I stepped out a few weeks ago looking for something new and came across this 3 piece band playing at Martini Ranch on West Avenue. The name of the band is GTB, Get The Belt, I was pleasantly surprised in the depth of this small band. We had Leo on electric, great guy, on bass we had Pete Perez who actually had played with, and from what I understand still makes an appearance with RIOT every once in a while. Rene was on drums, you animal, I love people who just live for the moment, enjoy life and and are not affraid to laugh out loud. They also had a special guest, her name was Natalie Bowen, this young lady got the dance floor warmed up for the rest of us.There were a few technical difficulties but they handled it like pros and kept the show rolling.
This band is very entertaining, so when they come to a place near you take the time to go and check them out, you will not be disappointed. ROCK ON GUYS!
http://www.myspace.com/getthebelt
Mar 20 2007
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Diane on Johnny Drama
Thanks to Diane for this review of Johnny Drama Saturday night at The Bitter End:
I had the pleasure of going Saturday night to the Bitter End and catching this CLASS ACT. I've always heard great things about the band and finally I had the chance to find out for myself. This band really takes pride in their deliverance, stage presence and making sure the crowd gets what they want. The house was packed and the place was banging.
There was a special celebration that night for the new addition to the band, Robert, he is the new DRUMMER. Hope that you enjoyed your b-day celebration but if I remember correctly it really isn't till Valentines Day.
Cesar, great show and great group of musicians. Love J.J. and that genuine smile. Al, ROCK oN! and Robert Stay just as sweet and fine as you have always been.
If you heard about the band and always wondered , wonder no more go out and check out the band this weekend, Friday, February 16 at SOHO Lounge. Believe me this is a talented group of musicians who want nothing more than to rock you out and have you coming back for more.
www.sadrama.com
I had the pleasure of going Saturday night to the Bitter End and catching this CLASS ACT. I've always heard great things about the band and finally I had the chance to find out for myself. This band really takes pride in their deliverance, stage presence and making sure the crowd gets what they want. The house was packed and the place was banging.
There was a special celebration that night for the new addition to the band, Robert, he is the new DRUMMER. Hope that you enjoyed your b-day celebration but if I remember correctly it really isn't till Valentines Day.
Cesar, great show and great group of musicians. Love J.J. and that genuine smile. Al, ROCK oN! and Robert Stay just as sweet and fine as you have always been.
If you heard about the band and always wondered , wonder no more go out and check out the band this weekend, Friday, February 16 at SOHO Lounge. Believe me this is a talented group of musicians who want nothing more than to rock you out and have you coming back for more.
www.sadrama.com
Monday, January 8, 2007
Ruben, E Muzeki and Enchiladas
Back in July, I had a major craving for some super-greasy super-tasty enchiladas, and asked for enchilada advice on the forum. Saturday I finally got a chance to take some of the advice I received. Thank you, David C, for recommending Casbeers. Awesome enchiladas! I could only eat two. The enchiladas are so smothered in chili and cheese, you can barely find the damn things. Just what I was looking for!
As a bonus, I got to hang out with Kel, Carlos, Denise, Michael and another lady whose name escapes me at the moment (sorry!). Good company!
As an added bonus, I got to once again experience a little Ruben V. Can't get too much of that! I've already reviewed Ruben on here before, so I won't say much. Great blues rock guitarist and singer. They did an awesome cover of The Beatles' "Golden Slumbers." I really enjoyed that!
I also got to talk with Ruben a little and learn a bit about what brought him from the heavy metal dude I remember from Corpus to the bluesman he is today. Interesting story, but I won't tell it. Not my story to tell. I couldn't tell it like he did anyway.
One little beef with Casbeers, though. It's kinda messed up, when people have been there for an hour eating and drinking, to suddenly come up and charge them a cover charge. We paid it, because we figured the money went to Ruben, but we thought it was a little tacky. Also, the guy ripped me off. The cover was supposed to be six dollars; I gave him a ten and he only gave me 2 dollars back. But that's ok! Whatever, man.
I had planned to go with Denise and Michael up to the Lion and Rose for the Ren gathering they had going on up there. So, after a while, I headed over there. E Muzeki was playing. I have also reviewed them before, so I won't say much about them either. Just that if you enjoy world music, like Celtic, Greek, etc., you should really check them out. It's beautiful music. My favorite song they do is a version of Led Zeppelin's "Kashmir," but if they did it Saturday night, it was after I left and I didn't get to hear it. Ah well...
I'd never been to the Lion and Rose before. Very nice British pub atmosphere, very crowded...I swear I saw Elvis at the bar, lol!
I didn't take my camera with me, as the batteries were dead, but my friends did send me some of E Muzeki, so here you go:
One last thing, in case E Muzeki reads this: I AM going to do a review of your CD (and others that I have), I PROMISE!! I just need to get caught up first! And I will, one of these days!! I swear! (Anyone have a cloning machine?)
As a bonus, I got to hang out with Kel, Carlos, Denise, Michael and another lady whose name escapes me at the moment (sorry!). Good company!
As an added bonus, I got to once again experience a little Ruben V. Can't get too much of that! I've already reviewed Ruben on here before, so I won't say much. Great blues rock guitarist and singer. They did an awesome cover of The Beatles' "Golden Slumbers." I really enjoyed that!
I also got to talk with Ruben a little and learn a bit about what brought him from the heavy metal dude I remember from Corpus to the bluesman he is today. Interesting story, but I won't tell it. Not my story to tell. I couldn't tell it like he did anyway.
One little beef with Casbeers, though. It's kinda messed up, when people have been there for an hour eating and drinking, to suddenly come up and charge them a cover charge. We paid it, because we figured the money went to Ruben, but we thought it was a little tacky. Also, the guy ripped me off. The cover was supposed to be six dollars; I gave him a ten and he only gave me 2 dollars back. But that's ok! Whatever, man.
I had planned to go with Denise and Michael up to the Lion and Rose for the Ren gathering they had going on up there. So, after a while, I headed over there. E Muzeki was playing. I have also reviewed them before, so I won't say much about them either. Just that if you enjoy world music, like Celtic, Greek, etc., you should really check them out. It's beautiful music. My favorite song they do is a version of Led Zeppelin's "Kashmir," but if they did it Saturday night, it was after I left and I didn't get to hear it. Ah well...
I'd never been to the Lion and Rose before. Very nice British pub atmosphere, very crowded...I swear I saw Elvis at the bar, lol!
I didn't take my camera with me, as the batteries were dead, but my friends did send me some of E Muzeki, so here you go:
One last thing, in case E Muzeki reads this: I AM going to do a review of your CD (and others that I have), I PROMISE!! I just need to get caught up first! And I will, one of these days!! I swear! (Anyone have a cloning machine?)
Monday, December 18, 2006
Ulterior Motive: Review from Diane
If you were not out to see the premiere of Ulterior Motive on Wednesday night, you missed one hell of a show.
WOW! WOW! WOW!
The show was by far the one of the most entertaining shows due to all the talent that came and shared in the unveiling of this fabulous group. This group has two wonderful lead singers which offers a wide genre of sound and technique. Whitney, this girl has pipes! She and Fabian tore up the place. On drums we had one very SEXY lady, Lee, Girl you kept the crowd anxious and excited! I'm impressed. But don't let me forget the Bass player, Peter, I've seen him before with Mad Wagon and know that this sexy hunk can play and will keep you entertained. All I can say is that Ulterior Motive will definitely be one of the favorites in the club and bar circuit so if they come to a place near you take the time to go see this extraordinary band.
Special Thanks to Prototype (Won, Guy and Rain), Deja-Vu (Robert, Tony, Jason and Brett), Mad Wagon( Chris, Ned, Sam and Roxanne), Papa Wood (Nathan), and Ceasar from Johnny Drama. If we could party like that every weekend I would be in heaven. Such a great group of talented musicians.
Rock On!
Diane
WOW! WOW! WOW!
The show was by far the one of the most entertaining shows due to all the talent that came and shared in the unveiling of this fabulous group. This group has two wonderful lead singers which offers a wide genre of sound and technique. Whitney, this girl has pipes! She and Fabian tore up the place. On drums we had one very SEXY lady, Lee, Girl you kept the crowd anxious and excited! I'm impressed. But don't let me forget the Bass player, Peter, I've seen him before with Mad Wagon and know that this sexy hunk can play and will keep you entertained. All I can say is that Ulterior Motive will definitely be one of the favorites in the club and bar circuit so if they come to a place near you take the time to go see this extraordinary band.
Special Thanks to Prototype (Won, Guy and Rain), Deja-Vu (Robert, Tony, Jason and Brett), Mad Wagon( Chris, Ned, Sam and Roxanne), Papa Wood (Nathan), and Ceasar from Johnny Drama. If we could party like that every weekend I would be in heaven. Such a great group of talented musicians.
Rock On!
Diane
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