Phish, the legendary jam band from Vermont, continues to push musical boundaries with their latest release, "Oblivion", from their their upcoming album, Evolve, set to drop on July 12th. Known for their genre-defying style and improvisational brilliance, Phish once again showcases their creative prowess and importance within the music scene in totality.
“Oblivion” stands out with its intricate instrumentals and thought-provoking lyrics, featuring layered guitar riffs, dynamic rhythm changes, and melodic explorations that take listeners on a journey. The song captures the essence of Phish’s live performances, with a structure that allows for improvisation and the unexpected. On the other hand, comparing it to another pre-released single, “Evolve”, listeners might take in a different yet complementary vibe. That track is loaded with funky bass lines, catchy hooks, and a more straightforward but equally compelling arrangement. Together, these singles demonstrate Phish's versatility and mastery of their craft, blending rock, jazz, funk, and even elements of classical music into a seamless auditory experience.
Now, let’s talk about the Phish community, or as they prefer to be called, Phishheads. This isn’t just a fan base; it’s a full-blown society with its own customs, rituals, and a collective enthusiasm that could power a small country. Phishheads are the friendliest folks you’ll ever meet at a concert, always ready to share a smile, a story, or something else if you catch my drift.... This sense of community extends beyond the concert venue, with fans maintaining connections and sharing experiences through online forums, and social media.
For those who have never experienced Phish live, attending a concert is a must. Phish shows are unique events where the setlist changes nightly, and the band’s improvisational skills shine, creating a one-of-a-kind experience each time. The energy in the venue is palpable, with the band feeding off the crowd’s enthusiasm and vice versa. Whether you're a seasoned concertgoer or new to the scene, seeing Phish live is a transformative journey into the heart of musical exploration and collective joy. And be sure to grab a copy of Phish's upcoming release Evolve on July 12th. This long awaited album is sure to be an instant classic, and will surely highlight why this band is so special to so many all around the world.
- Brian Porter
Eminem is back, and better than ever, with his latest video "Houdini." This new release has taken the internet by storm, and it's no wonder why. From jaw-dropping visuals to unexpected cameos, "Houdini" is a feast for the eyes and ears.
The video kicks off with a bang, featuring a brilliant sampling of Steve Miller's classic hit "Abracadabra." This clever nod to the past sets the tone for what's to come—an electrifying blend of nostalgia and fresh creativity. Eminem weaves his lyrical prowess seamlessly with the iconic tune, creating a sonic experience that's nothing short of magical.
One of the standout aspects of the video is the array of cameo appearances. Fans will be delighted to see familiar faces from Eminem's storied career, including Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Shane Gillis, Pete Davidson, and even a surprise appearance by 50 Cent. These moments not only add star power but also highlight Eminem's influence and connections within the industry. Each cameo is perfectly timed and adds an extra layer of excitement to the already dynamic video.
The visuals in "Houdini" are nothing short of spectacular. The video is packed with vibrant colors, stunning special effects, and intricate choreography. Eminem's charismatic presence commands the screen, and his energy is infectious. The combination of captivating visuals and Eminem’s rapid-fire delivery keeps viewers hooked from start to finish. It's like reading a comic book and seeing your favorite sci-fi thriller all in one sitting!
Audience reactions to "Houdini" have been mixed but intense. Fans are raving about the video's creativity and the nostalgic elements, while critics seem divided. Some hail it as a masterful comeback, while others can't seem to get past their preconceived notions. Regardless, the buzz surrounding "Houdini" is undeniable, proving that Eminem still knows how to get people talking. In 8 days since "Houdini" was released, the video has racked up an incredible 55 million hits on YouTube. While incredible, its not surprising for a artist that continues to ascend while many others are on a rapid decline.
Bottom line, "Houdini" is a triumphant return for Eminem. With its brilliant use of sampling, star-studded cameos, and stunning visuals, the video is a must-watch for any fan of the rap icon. It's clear that Eminem still has plenty of tricks up his sleeve, and we can't wait to see what he pulls off next. And if the success of "Houdini" is any foreshadowing of his upcoming release, The Death of Slim Shady, fans and critics alike will need to once again brace for EM's greatness!
- Matthew Belter
I headed to Naples, NY to catch The Movement on their Ways of the World 5th Anniversary Tour. I got to hang out with the guys for a little before the show, what freaking cool dudes they are. So laid back and chill. I asked why two shows in Naples and it turns out that it is Matt’s hometown, which made it a pretty cool experience. At one point I was standing by the mech table for The Movement and a guy buys a shirt, the merch guy asked if he was from Naples and knew Matt, he said yeah, I’m his dad. Mech guy said wait why are you buying a shirt, “I got to support my son and the band.” It took place at Hollerhorn Distilling, a really beautiful spot up on a hill. Great atmosphere for a reggae show. If you are ever near Naples, you have to check out this spot, great spirits (the gin is really good) and food and the staff is awesome! My only complaint I had was the rain. It seems that every time I photograph an outside show, it rains. But I did not let it get me down, nor did it let the crowd down at all.
The show started off with aurorawave, lead by the former frontman for Iya Terra, Nathan Feinstein (Aurora) along with Iya Terra drummer Tanner Arebalo. While they played some Iya Terra favorites, I think what the crowd loved hearing was their original autroawave songs. While still new as a group with just a few songs, I was surprised to see so many signing along. Taken from their website, this sums up the style and vibe; "it is the sonic culmination of Nathan’s musical evolution. With unwavering authenticity, the band manifests as the genuine sound of Feinstein's artistry, a fusion of his diverse musical encounters. aurorawave invites listeners into a world where diverse influences converge, creating a sound that is uniquely and unmistakably its own. Masterfully harnessing the raw power of heavier genres and intertwining it seamlessly with the smooth cadence of reggae, aurorawave is a dynamic and genre-blurring force that encapsulates the band's unique musical vision." They put on such a fun show, Nathan belting it out as always, Tanner leading the way with the beat and two fantastic guitarist, lead guitarist was so solid and the bass player having so much fun with the crowd. No matter what your music genre go-to is, you need to check out their unique sound.
Next up was KBong & Johnny Cosmic and the rain to the stage, just when we thought the bad weather was passing us, the clouds opened up again. But it did not upset one person there (maybe me a little LOL), smiles everywhere, and how can you not smile listening to KBong and Cosmic? A few songs in they hit us with “Smiles on Faces,” the crowd singing right along with HUGE smiles on their faces. I don’t think KBong stopped smiling the entire set, I’ve notices this in the past, it always amazes me how upbeat and positive he is all the time! The crowd just feeds off his love and he feeds off the crowds love. The crowd just loved their set, signing along, swaying to the sweet grooves. I’ve seen KBong & Cosmic a few times together and many times with Stick Figure, and something that really hit me watching this performance, Johnny Cosmic has a fantastic voice! It’s not that I ever thought he didn’t have a good voice, but I just never heard it like I heard it this time. Maybe it was the small, intimate venue, being very close to the stage and speakers, maybe it was a smaller crowd (I think capacity was 500), but I caught myself not taking pictures at times and just listening to his vocals. So sweet! Great performance and the crowd was so ecstatic.
This tour is the 5th anniversary of their album Ways of the World, so of course they played the album for us, same order as the album. One of the best albums in the past 6-7 years in my opinion. The album was produced by Johnny Cosmic and what an amazing album it turned out to be, it is paced out to perfection. It starts out nice and chill, melodic, a sweet island feel. But it is organized in a way that the tracks that are more staunch and tough are supported by softer, more chill songs. Once again, it stopped raining between bands, but as soon as The Movement walks out on stage playing “Ways of the World” it opens up again with a nice steady rain. Again, not one person cared, just soaking in all the vibes and amazing music. Matt is always so hyped up on stage, but I think being back home he was even happier. Huge smiles all night long. Jason keeping the flow going all night with the baseline, bumpin’ that sound, Kyle keeping it all together, Gary thumping the drums, does his head ever stop moving, and great vocals from Josh, I think he sounds better and better each time I see them play.
As much as the crowd was grooving to and loved “Redwoodz” and “Take Me to the Ocean,” it was when they hit us with “Orange Sky” that we all went nuts. Probably my favorite song of theirs, it’s an anthem I try and live by; “And if I had the power to rewind these years/And travel back through the ages/I'd watch the story unfold through a river of tears/As I longed to rewrite these pages/You get out of bed and wonder how much money can you rake up/Then I'm afraid you're still sleeping/When are you gonna wake up/You can't live life for the weekend.” As they flowed through the rest of the album, the rain coming down harder and hared as if it was feeding off all the great vibes, but not one person upset about the rain, everyone thoroughly enjoying the show. After “Cool Me Down” they hit us with the Drums…..the beats flowing through the night sky! Always fun watching the crowd bobbin’ their heads to the drums! As they finish off the album with “Remember” we were not ready for this to end and they weren’t either. They bring us a few hits to finish off the night with some guest experiences! They start the encore with “Always Remember Me” and slide over to “Sounds of Summer.” And while it didn’t quite feel like summer, the chill island groove took us all there. They flow into “Fair Warning” and then “Kingdom,” keeping up the energy and vibes. And then they finished off this awesome journey with KBong and “Easy To Love.”
Every time I see The Movement they get better and better, stronger and stronger, we have not seen the best from them, whether it is in the studio or live. And getting to spend a little time talking with them, they are awesome guys, so down to earth and chill. You can’t help but love their vibe and groove. If you have never listened to them or heard them live, do yourself a favor, check them out. You will thank me. Another great night and performance by The Movement.
One Love - Todd
While Vybz Kartel received bad news not receiving bail for his retrial hearing starting on June 10th, his recent EP release Party With Me has jumped to the #2 spot on iTunes top 100 reggae albums in just a few days. It goes to show that fans still love the World Boss, in prison since April of 2014, and still crave his music. He has consistently put music out since his incarceration even though Jamaican prison officials have denied allowing him recording privileges, and while some are probably previously recorded songs or lyrics, Vybz has refused to explain the source of his recording, where some of his lyrical content includes current events.
The 8-track album includes 6 new songs along with two previously released in the mid-2010’s, "Ignite the World” and "Pale Blue Dot (Rihanna Wine)". The project was released under Kartel’s own label, Adidjaheim Records with collaborations from producers Din Din, TJ Records, Prod Panda, Redboom Supamix and ZJ Chrome. He starts of with “Dollar Dollar,” a nice quick flow from Vybz over a slow hard beat, Vybz changing up his cadence with the chorus. It’s a song that makes you want more new music from the World Boss. Next up is “Wet” a typical Vybz tune with the synthesized music and beat and the sexual lyrics that made him popular, “I make you wet, I make you moan, I make you wet, I make you moan.” “Tell Me What U Want” takes us to another spitfire lyrical song. Not one of my favorites, feel this falls a little short of what we expect from Kartel.
The title track, “Party With Me” is next, a really nice flow to this, a great beat and rhythm to this, probably the best track on the album. Another strong Vybz song that takes me back; “Mi liquor nice and mi weed have a vibes and/Mi just bathe, mi fresh, mi feel nice and/Come out clean, come out looking right and/Everybody a enjoy dem self/Plus mi alone wid you mi baby/Yah mi boo, yah mi best friend/Mi feel safe wid you beside mi/Mi nuh wah see di night end.” He hits us with another strong song, “Hot Shot.” A strong beat and flow with this, he hits with some tight lyrics. These songs seem to take me back to before his incarceration, which is not a bad thing. He hits us with back-to-back previously released songs, “Ignite the World” and “Pale Blue Dot (Rihanna Wine).” The album is finished off with “Ar 15,” a song that I was not completely into the first couple times through, but once I dove into the lyrics that changed. This might be the strongest lyrical track on the album. He really steps it up and kills it with this one!
We are all awaiting the retrial in hopes that Vybz will be found not guilty, we are craving more music, created in a studio. I can only imagine the difficulties these past years creating new music from behind bars. Jamaican dancehall has not been the same without Kartle running it. This is a solid album, especially considering he made it in prison, but we all know there is much better music to come from the World Boss.
One Love - Todd
Get ready to groove! David Byrne and DEVO have unearthed their decades-old gem, "Empire," for a special cause. This long-unheard collaboration is finally seeing the light of day as part of the charitable compilation album **NOISE FOR NOW VOL. 2**, supporting abortion access. The track, which melds Byrne's eclectic style with DEVO's signature energy, promises to be an auditory treat for fans old and new. Catch this legendary reunion and support a great cause by tuning in when the album drops on June 21st. See Press Release below for additional details!
On June 21st, 501(c)3 non-profit organization NOISE FOR NOW will release the second album on their recently launched label, NOISE FOR NOW VOL. 2. The release coincides with the two-year anniversary of the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision, forever changing the landscape of reproductive rights in the United States. Continued attacks on abortion further overextend already under resourced independent clinics as they adapt, respond and challenge these bans. Set to benefit independent abortion providers throughout the nation via Keep Our Clinics, the album features exclusive versions of tracks by Faye Webster, The War On Drugs, Courtney Barnett, David Byrne and Devo, MC50 ft. Arrow De Wilde, Big Freedia, SOFIA ISELLA, Julia Jacklin, Becca Mancari, Claud and AJ Haynes (of Seratones). NOISE FOR NOW VOL. 2 will be available on vinyl at your local record store and digitally across all streaming platforms. Pre-save / pre-order the album here: https://lnk.to/kQzIoFAW.
Today, NOISE FOR NOW shares the latest release from the album, “Empire” from David Byrne and DEVO, following last month’s release of Faye Webster’s "Lifetime (Live)." The song was originally released via the 2022 digital-only benefit compilation, Good Music To Ensure Safe Abortion Access To All, which was available for only 24 hours via Bandcamp and, along with the t-shirt sales featuring the album’s Kim Gordon-created “Liberate Abortion” cover art, grossed over $230,000.
“Years ago, I did a record called Feelings in which I collaborated with different musicians on the songs,” notes Byrne. “I worked with members of DEVO on 2 songs, one of which is on the album. The other one, ‘Empire,’ is an ironic capitalist fascist anthem and, at the time, I thought our version was just too mean and caustic for release. Well, times change, and it certainly resonates now in ways it maybe didn't then. It was a joy to work with the DEVO guys, they knew exactly what the song is about.” DEVO’s Gerald Casale also says, “We were on board working with the dark satire of David Byrne’s ‘Empire’ over 30 years ago. The song was prescient and we got it. Now it can be heard!”
“Freedom of Choice is what you’ve got. Freedom from Choice is what you want. (DEVO 1980)” – “Unfortunately the forces of tyranny are striking with impunity now. These bad actors are not Pro-Life so much as they are Anti-Choice. They want women to live in a real life version of The Handmaid’s Tale,” adds Casale. “But there’s more of us who respect human rights than those who want to crush those rights. Freedom of Choice is a constant fight. DEVO salutes NOISE FOR NOW for their efforts to save a woman’s right to abortion.”
NOISE FOR NOW enables artists and entertainers to connect with and financially support grassroots organizations that work in the field of Reproductive Justice including abortion access. The organization believes that we all deserve accurate and consistent information, access to safe and dignified health care, and the ability to control our bodies and lives. The new compilation follows the release of NOISE FOR NOW Vol 1 – a special vinyl-only limited edition album featuring tracks from Maya Hawke, Amanda Shires and Jason Isbell, Bully, Wet Leg, My Morning Jacket, Fleet Foxes, and more. The LP was released in November 2023 and is available on clear vinyl via the NOISE FOR NOW store HERE. These songs were originally found on the Good Music To Ensure Safe Abortion Access To All benefit compilation.
‘NOISE FOR NOW: VOL. 2’ DIGITAL TRACK LISTING
01 - Julia Jacklin - “Dead From The Waist Down (Catatonia cover)”
02 - Courtney Barnett - “Boxing Day Blues (Demo)”
03 - Becca Mancari - “It's Too Late (Demo)”
04 - The War On Drugs - “Victim (Live)”
05 - MC50 feat. Arrow DeWilde - “High School (Live)”
06 - A.J. Haynes (of Seratones) - “Everything is Change”
07 - Claud - “Spare Tire (Demo)”
08 - Faye Webster - “Lifetime (Live)”
09 - SOFIA ISELLA - “Hot Gum (she version)”
10 - David Byrne and Devo - “Empire”
11 - Big Freedia - “Holatta”
Pre-save / pre-order here: https://lnk.to/kQzIoFAW
On this summer evening, LA’s finest, iconic, funky, grooving rock band, Red Hot Chili Peppers, are set to open the season at the Toyota Amphitheater in Wheatland, CA. The multi-generational crowd was ready to funk out to the kings of funk, groove, and rock. As the seats were filling up and packing in for a night to remember, the opening act, rapper Ken Carson, set the tone for the evening with his fervent performance, making his presence known with bumping bass tracks and intent to spit hot bars into the crowd with no avail. The fire was being launched and prepped the crowd for what’s to come next, the main event.
The Peppers are on their Unlimited Love tour which began in 2022 and continues into 2024, making multiple stops across North America. Supporting the band’s double releases of 2022 titled Unlimited Love and Return of the Dream Canteen, this is the first tour for the Peppers since 2019. These Grammy-winning Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees are giving it all to their fans on this lengthy tour, playing all the hits and some deep cuts alike with an introspective set list that spans 40 years of enduring passion and shows the reason for this band's longevity in the music industry.
And now on to the main attraction, The Red Hot Chili Peppers. As the band hit the stage, Flea strutted out in a full handstand in a skirt and the crowd leaps up on their feet for the funky intro song followed by their massive hit “Dani California.” The songs are as I remember, a signature blend of funk, punk, and catchy feel-good vibes. This band never disappoints, delivering their chart-topping songs with polarizing deliverance with a mastery of their instruments and enthusiasm on full display for the fans. The band continues the jams with more from the newer releases as well as classics like “The Other Side” and “Scar Tissue.” Flea’s funk flair and groovy melodies were enjoyed by all with his slap bass rituals, pulsating bass lines, and flying leaps. He was in perfect unison with Anthony Kiedis' martial arts moves. Even with a medical boot on one leg, Kiedis seems to keep up with the grasshopper stage antics while delivering the multiple vocal styles he is known for.
Back in the mix is guitarist John Frusciante, a thoughtful, melodic, emotional guitarist that lends a great flavor to the Peppers' songs about love, lost friendships, and personal struggles with addiction. His hiatus from The Peppers was surely missed. Chad Smith was his usual confident self, keeping perfect time on the skins, making the low-end groove magically with Flea. Longtime touring keyboardist, Chris Warren, is always a treat to watch. The visuals were stunning; gigantic LED screens with psychedelic imagery sprawled across the stage were mesmerizing and well-executed. The energy remained high from both the band and the audience as they showcased their best tracks while delivering a stellar performance. And, of course, a bass solo made an appearance, and the anticipated biggest hits upon the encore.
This was a night to remember for all in attendance. The RHCP have stood the test of time, making it through tube socks, drug addictions, a revolving door of guitarists, and 40 years of the seedy underbelly of the music industry, only to come out shining and magical. I can see that they are on a mission to give it all away to the fans, creating a lasting impression on old and new fans. They left the audience in awe; it was nothing short of epic, and it was a shame for the night to end. You can catch up with the tour as it plunders on across North America, concluding in St. Louis on July 30th.
Maggie Lindemann’s show on May 29th at The Troubadour, with support from Too Poor, was a night to remember. The venue was packed, and the crowd's excitement was palpable. Too Poor kicked off the night with an energetic DJ set, wearing a striking black and white striped leather jacket reminiscent of Beetlejuice. She skillfully hyped up the alternative crowd, filling the room with raised hands as she threw shirts into the audience while dancing and smiling.
The anticipation for Maggie Lindemann was high, with fans chanting her name even before she took the stage. Celebrating her album Headsplit, Maggie performed many songs from it, captivating the audience with her dynamic stage presence. She engaged closely with fans, often approaching the sides of the stage for memorable interactions.
A highlight was seeing Maggie and Siiickbrain perform together. Siiickbrain's screaming vocals contrasted powerfully with Maggie's, creating an intense and unforgettable performance. Their on-stage chemistry made the performance feel like a thrilling battle.
Jasiah joined Maggie briefly to perform "Taking Over Me," a moment that felt like an adrenaline rush. Iconic songs like "Loner," "Crash and Burn," and "She Knows It" were crowd favorites. "Loner" resonated deeply with many, while "She Knows It" was a celebration for many girls in the audience. A special moment unfolded when Maggie invited her fan, Lia, to sing on stage, showcasing Maggie’s genuine appreciation for her fans.
The crowd was fully immersed in the music, especially during "Hostage." As Maggie and her band exited the stage, the audience's desire for more was evident. The encore was electrifying, with Siiickbrain returning for an unforgettable finale. Even typically annoying aspects of shows were fun in this lively atmosphere.
Overall, Maggie Lindemann's show, supported by Too Poor was an experience that left everyone wanting more. If you missed it, it was truly a loss, as such electrifying performances are rare and irreplicable. This show undoubtedly sparked a desire to attend more of their live performances and you should too!
Ashley Kutcher kicked up an emotional storm of a night on her headlining show for her House On The Water Tour at the Troubadour, with support from Dead Like Disco and Caleb Hearn. The fans were already fully bringing in the energy, wearing shirts with their own signs for Ashley Kutcher and shirts with her name on them as well. People came from different states just for this show, and you could feel everyone’s excitement every time they cheered.
Dead Like Disco knew what they were doing from the moment they hit the stage. If they didn’t say it was their first tour, I’m sure anyone would have thought that they’ve been around for a long time. They have the confidence, smiles, and stage presence to shine a light on anyone who is watching. The band members would switch between instruments as well, but it still felt organic. Their setlist included songs such as "Validation," "I Don’t Wanna Go Out Tonight," "PSFOP," "Emotional Graffiti," "Hollywood is Burning," "Smells Like Teen Spirit," and "In Another Life."
Ashley’s drummer even came out to play wearing not one, but two pieces of Dead Like Disco’s merch for a song; it was a wholesome moment. The lyrics for "Emotional Graffiti" painted a picture in the mind, and "PSFOP" is a song that a lot of people who’ve dealt with a situationship or even just a complicated relationship can relate to. Plus, it’s catchy, and it wouldn’t surprise me if it blew up on TikTok. I’m strongly looking forward to seeing what this band does next.
When Caleb Hearn took the stage, he brought a boy-next-door charm that excited many in the audience. His setlist featured songs like "1000 Reasons," "Damage," "Half As Good," "Warm Body," "If It Wasn’t For You," "1200 Sq Ft," "Birthdays And Funerals," "Little Bit Better," and "Klonopin." "1000 Reasons" encourages perseverance, while "Damage" poignantly addresses life's transience. Before "Half As Good," Caleb shared a touching story about his Grandma, reminding us to cherish loved ones. "1200 Sq Ft" echoes this sentiment. "Klonopin" vividly captures his struggle with anxiety, and "Birthdays and Funerals" is a tear-jerking love song. The highlight was "Little Bit Better," where Rosie joined him, electrifying the room.
When Ashley Kutcher finally hit the stage, fans eagerly awaited her arrival. She wore a shirt signed by her fans and added songs to the setlist to please them. Her performance included tracks like "House On The Water," "Love You More," "Half Gone," "Matchbox," "Girl In The Mirror," "Trust Fall," "Sleepy," "If I Could," "The Night You Left," "Strangers," "Plead," "Man I Feel Like A Woman," "Favorite Color," "How's The Weather," "LYFAD," and "Boy From Carolina." Her guitarist from Dead Like Disco matched her energy. Ashley connected with fans through relatable stories and exuded the charisma of a headliner with the warmth of a friend. Sitting on the stage’s edge with her acoustic guitar created an intimate moment. "Love You More" explores lingering love, while "Girl In The Mirror" deals with self-conflict. A standout was Ashley and Dead Like Disco’s fun rendition of Shania Twain's "Man I Feel Like A Woman." Ashley’s ability to switch from emotional ballads to upbeat tunes left a lasting impact.
Bottom line, if you weren’t at the Troubadour that night, you missed out on a colorful, emotional rollercoaster of a good time. You could feel the appreciation and sense of family all of these artists had for each other, especially with Ashley Kutcher and Dead Like Disco. Caleb had his own unique charm as well. You could also see the strength the music has given to all the fans who listen to it. Regardless of who you are, this was a night anyone could appreciate.
Sometimes it can be annoying when a venue is supposedly to host a concert event, only for that said venue to bump the original artist to another spot in lieu of another artist/group. That is what happened at the Constellation Room at the Observatory in Santa Ana, CA in late April. It was supposed to be a night of horror metal and nu metal excitement with Doyle & Otep rocking out the Constellation Room. However, their show was replaced with a surprise performance by alternative rock Gods Weezer (that would have been a cool show too). As luck would have it, the Parish Room at the House of Blues in Anaheim became available. Along with modern hard rockers Red Devil Vortex, Doyle & Otep jumped at the chance to scream their bloody lungs out for Anaheim. Rabit and I headed on over to hear a bunch of love songs that fans could dance to.
First up for the night was Los Angeles’ Red Devil Vortex. I am familiar with this group’s hard rock style, devilish rock ‘n’ roll that is fun for all ages. Bassist and lead vocalist Gabriel Connor has this humbling voice that is commanding but flows in the air naturally. He also dominates the bass lines with sheer force. Guitarist Luis Kalil has an insane fingering technique that could rival Godsmack’s Tony Rombola and Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello. Let us not forget drummer Eduardo Baldo, who is a killing machine behind the kit. Swift and deadly, Baldo laid to waste each note that came his way. For their half hour set, Red Devil Vortex wetted the crowd’s appetite for metal with songs like “Open the Gates,” “More Luck Than Brains,” “Viper,” “The Devil’s Place,” “Disaster,” “Freak Show,” and “Something Has to Die.” Having just dropped their self-titled debut LP, this band is entering the vortex that should take them to heavy metal glory. Sinister to the last note, I am hungry for more Red Devil Vortex down the road.
Following up with that stellar performance is nu metal legend Otep. What is cool about seeing Otep again was that for Rabit and myself, she was the first headliner we ever covered together (Observatory, 2016). Eight years later, she comes back full circle. While I liked her performance in 2016, I felt this one was far superior. I do not know what it was, but she brought incredible energy to this tour that made me really feel the vibes in the music she creates. Maybe it is also because since latest album, The God Slayer, is set to be her last, she was not going to pull back her punches on stage. Along her touring partners that included a drummer, guitarist AJ Bartholomew, and bassist Tiaday Bell, Otep did waste any time slaying the audience with her unapologetic brashness and nu metal swagger. From “Battle Ready” to “Fillthee,” “My Confession,” “T.R.I.C.,” “Apex Predator,” and “Menocide,” the Parish Room was in mosh mode. My personal favorites were “Blood Pigs” and “Equal Rights, Equal Left” as they brought extra oomph to the set. All in all, Otep was the Anaheim slayer going out with a bang.
After a brief intermission to catch our breaths, out came the grand puma of the horror metal scene, Doyle. It still baffles my mind that this man is still razor sharp with his punk and metal licks, but he is still insanely ripped at 59. Dear God, Doyle Wolfgang von Frankenstein is not human! Along with his longtime frontman Alex Story, aka Wolfman, they were howling and terrorizing the Anaheim crowd. Wolfman is a werewolf of a singer, snarling and growling to the microphone, while reminding the crowd that each song was sort of like a love song and we could dance to it if we wanted to (hahaha, still gets me). During one the songs, he climbed to the top of the stacked amps and sang like a madman. Along with bassist Brandon Strate and newcomer drummer Luke Wright, who was sensational on the kit especially during his solo number, Doyle brought horror fun to the Parish Room, making it feel like Halloween in the Springtime. We all banged our heads to their classic hits like “Abominator,” “Beast Like Me,” “Cemeterysexxx,” “Valley of Shadows,” “Night of Sin,” “DreamingDeadGirls,” “Witchcraft,” “We Belong Dead,” “Drawing Down the Moon,” “Learn to Bleed,” and “Hope Hell is Warm.” Ending the evening with Doyle always brightens my next morning.
Though the show was meant for the Constellation Room, I preferred to be at the Parish Room because that night had great synergy at the venue. Sometimes an unexpected change in scenery can lead to even better evening. Doyle and Otep were weapons of mass metal destruction that leveled the Anaheim crowd, while Red Devil Vortex was the fuse that sparked the night. It is amazing to think that eight years ago with seeing Otep, Rabit and I became a dynamic duo in the rock/metal journalism scene. You know what, we are just getting started. To Doyle, Otep, and Red Devil Vortex, I salute you. Horns up!!!
(Photos by: Matt 'Rabit' Martinez)
Billy Sheehan, Eric Martin, and Paul Gilbert tore the house down in a big way on May 15th. (Hey that’s two puns for the price of one.) All jokes aside, Mr. Big took over the Coach House in San Juan Capistrano and rocked the OC. As good as they are and with all the years of touring under their collective belts, it would be easy for them to phone it in. But no, these are three of the absolute best at what they do in both musicianship and stage presence.
This is billed as the “Big Finish” tour. It’s a bit emotional, because not only is this the farewell tour for the band, but the main reason is the still raw loss of drummer, Pat Torpey. On this particular night, there wasn’t an opening act, so when the band tore into the first song, “Addicted to That Rush,” which also happens to be the first song on their debut album, the audience knew it was time to buckle their seat belts because Mr. Big was about to bring it in a big way.
Besides being a farewell, another draw for this tour was to see and hear the band’s sophomore album, Lean Into It, played in its entirety. Lean Into It was a smash breakthrough and yielded a number one hit with “To Be With You.” That happens to be the last song on the album and the album was played in order. So what happened before it? Virtuoso playing. Harmonies. And lots and lots of fun.
Paul Gilbert broke out the Makita drill for "Daddy, Brother, Lover, Little Boy (The Electric Drill Song)." Billy Sheehan made good use of his signature Yamaha double-neck bass. And even though Eric Martin has had some vocal issues of late, the harmonies of Sheehan, Gilbert, and drummer Nick D’Virgilio, more than aided Martin during the evening.
After finishing the Lean Into It segment of the evening, the band did a sweet cover of Cat Steven’s “Wild World.” And then it was time to once again strap in. Paul Gilbert took center stage and reminded everyone just what a guitar hero looks and sounds like. He tapped. He shredded. He played “Gonna Fly Now,” the theme from Rocky. Billy Sheehan also got a solo, as well he should. He takes the bass to places that many can only dream of. (Sheehan is also the king of the “Bass Face.”)
Mr. Big are masters of their craft and it’s obvious they love what they do. The final set of songs were covers, albeit “Shy Boy” may be a Talas song, but Talas was Sheehan’s band. The fun and musicianship were really evident when Sheehan took over on vocals, Martin moved to bass, D’Virgilio strapped on a guitar, and Gilbert went behind the drum kit for a rousing “Good Lovin’.”
The night finished with an anthemic “Baba O’Riley” and the evening came to an end with the audience knowing they’ve seen and hear really great music played by really great musicians.
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