WEEDEATER at the Relax Bar

Can't believe it took me this long to get these posted. Although I do have far older stuff waiting around as well. Anyway, I caught Weedeater at the Relax Bar this past August. They crank out some crazed and heavy metal with crushing riffs, vocals that sound like they could rip through steel, and a drummer that hits harder than hell. Definitely one of the best bands I've seen this year.

BROKEN PATTERNS live

Went to see Sista Sekunden this past Wednesday at DiPiazza's in Long Beach, CA. One of the opening bands was Broken Patterns, which consist of members from Broken Needle, Knife Fight, and Cut The Shit. However, Broken Patterns is more along the lines of early So Cal punk instead of the hardcore of their previous bands. Their set was tight, and a good mix of originals and covers. Apparently they have a demo out, but it's sold out. Hmmmm.... I imagine there's a record to follow soon. Anyway, here's the photos...

STORMCROW live in So Cal

Finally had a chance to see Stormcrow live. I have been hearing about them for a year or more. Worth the wait. Here's some shots from their show at the Cobalt Cafe in the Valley. I shot some photos on film as well, which I'll post later.

THE SECRET SOCIETY OF THE SONIC SIX @ the Knitting Factory

Here are but a few photos from the recent performance from Secret Society of The Sonic Six. These were shot at the Knitting Factory in Hollywood. Same show as the Savage Republic photos posted here a few weeks ago. (((6))) are certainly one of my favorite bands, and I make a point to see them live as much as possible. Their performances create a mood and take you some place else. Sort of like watching a movie in a strange way. They are talking of touring the southwest and east coast next year. It would be worth your time to go out for their shows.

SAVAGE REPUBLIC at the Knitting Factory

Chrome was scheduled to play the Knitting Factory recently with the Secret Society of The Sonic Six opening. Then I learned that Savage Republic were on the bill as well. So, there's three bands on a bill that are worth seeing. A rare occurance these days. Well, Chrome had to cancel due to their van breaking down. So that moves Savage Republic up as headliners. They played a mix of tribal and ambient surf style instrumentals. The percussion was amazing, and even the metal barrel, or drum, proved to be quite musical. Almost tuneful in a way. Certainly a great night, and from a legendary band no doubt. 

OL SCRATCH

One of the opening bands on the Sourvein show was Ol Scratch, from Virginia. They filled a slot on the bill left open after Zoroaster had to cancel out. Had no real idea what to expect from these guys. I must admit, I'm pretty jaded and cynical towards most new bands, so my expectations were pretty low. I figured I'd check out at least two songs then go outside for the rest of the set. Instead, I was blow away by their stoner rock with a heavy groove and sound that just took over. Not to mention the energetic performance. Ol Scratch is definitely a band who wants to be on stage and they prove it. None of this 'turn the back to the crowd and stare at the floor we haven't practiced since last year' crap that you get all too often anymore. Instead, their performance was tight, and they went off! I guess that sounds like I'm writing some press release garbage, but really, these guys are AWESOME, and one of the best bands of the night.

DEATH CRISIS

My friend Don tells me that some band is playing the Relax Bar that features ex-members of Life Crisis. Hmmmm... Having seeing Life Crisis when they played a show at the Che with JBA a few years back, and listening to their EP many times I was looking forward to seeing this new band. Must say, Death Crisis are even better. Their front man, Albert, from Chicken Farm, is one of the best frontmen I've seen in a while. Very animated with a crazed look on his face. Stylistically, they're along the same lines as Life Crisis - early 80s style hardcore punk, but very aware of the present. Or maybe I'm just projecting that last bit on to them. I have no idea what's on their minds or their intent with the band. No matter, the music rips and is worth your time. If you get the chance to see them live, make sure you do it. Even if it is on a school night or a work night. You are hardcore right?