Space Lords

Nik Turner's Hawkwind
Amoeba Records, San Francisco
November 23, 2013

As crazy as it might sound today, the last time I saw Hawkwind was on February 15, 1994 at the Great American Music Hall in San Francisco and the support bands that night were... Sleep and... Acid King.  Crazy, right?  Now fast forward to the 21st Century and I'll be honest and admit I have not really paid attention to the different versions of "Hawkwind" that are going around today.  Long story short, "the other" version of Hawkwind recently postponed their U.S. Tour but Nik Turner continued with his trek.  However, I didn't feel it was worth paying to see either one of them.   So, thank dog for free shows at Amoeba!

The start of the set was pushed back 15 minutes.. but then Nik Turner landed onstage wearing some spacy make up, which was matched by his witchy hippie dancing female keyboardist.  The band was rounded out by a drummer, guitarist, and bassist.  Jason Black Cobra and I both thought we recognized the bassist from "somewhere" and it turns out Nik's entire band lives in The Bay Area while he resides in Wales.  Odd, right?  That being said his band were top notch and it really made a difference seeing Nik backed by such pros.

The fact that Nik's band had his back made up for the awkward moments when his voice was out of tune or the songs went a bit too far *out there* with hippie spacy stuff.  They acted as his life line back to the mother ship.  'Earth Calling' opened the afternoon's entertainment and for the next hour or so Nik and his troupe of astro-volume dealers took us to infinity and beyond.  Nik dedicated the set to Lemmy and appropriately 'Silver Machine' was the highlight of the set.  Afterwards, Nik met with his fans and signed autographs... so this contact high happened:

A pretty fun afternoon that didn't cost anything.  On the way back to the car, some pimply-faced teenagers called me a fag.  Then 72 hours later it was...

Monster Magnet / Royal Thunder
The Independent, San Francisco
November 26, 2013

It was ironic that I would be seeing a band who Nik Turner and Hawkwind obviously influenced only 3 days later.  It was also really weird that Monster Magnet were playing the same San Francisco venue where I saw them play twice back in 1993.  Back then the space was called the Kennel Club.

 [From the Umlaut Archives]

August 25, 1993:   The video for 'Face Down' was all over MTV's Headbangers Ball and the show was sold out packed with Raging Slab supporting.  October 13, 1993:  It was a different story less than 2 months later as the same room was less than 1/2 full with Clutch supporting.   Now fast forward 20 years and I entered the same room again to see what Monster Magnet 2013 was like.  The band are on their first U.S. Tour in 10 years and to my pleasant surprise the show ended up being pretty old school full. 

I've seen Royal Thunder before and while I appreciate what they're doing... and people worship them... I'm still not inspired enough to buy their merch.  Yes, MLny Parsonz is a compelling voice and presence who sort of sounds like a mumbling Janis Joplin.  I just wish she'd mumble more coherently so I can understand what she's saying.   Just saying (pun intended)...  That being said, I liked Royal Thunder more than I have in the past as the guitarist has legitimately stepped up his game; his playing was thumbs up for me tonight when in the past I've been dismissive of him.

As the stage was prepared for the return of Monster Magnet to San Francisco I mentally prepared to be disappointed.  Old people like me know what that means; seeing old bands can very much be a double edged sword.  The songs remain the same in your head, but the current day performances can end up being sad.  Old dudes trying to act young can be so awkward and unsexy, right?  So as Dave Wyndorf and Monster Magnet 2013 walked onstage I was apprehensive despite the beer I had enjoyed... but then they lurched into 'Nod Scene' from the first album to open the set.  'Nod Scene' is my favorite Monster Magnet song... so all was right with my universe for the next 75 minutes or so.  "Screw you if you think I care... Smoke.."

Aside from Wyndorf I have no idea who the guys are in Monster Magnet 2013... but they were damn good.  It was a pleasant surprise how on point the band is today.  Yes, Wyndorf is older like all of us and he gives off a definite Mickey Rourke vibe now... but he's still got it.  The vintage 'Look To Your Orb For The Warning' and 'Powertrip' were pretty damn amazing.  Suddenly it was the 90's again and people listened to bands on albums they bought at record stores again and my hair was half way down my back again and I was drinking Red Hook on tap again.  Good times again.. at least for one more night. 

They did not play their 1993 hit 'Face Down' which probably was a good thing because I think a lot of the middle aged ladies in the crowd would have expected Wyndorf to take his shirt off during it.  I don't think anyone needs to see that here in the 21st Century... and I think Wyndorf understands that.  He kept things classy onstage with his leather jacket and black t-shirt.  Tonight was made even more nostalgically special because I stood with Lori Acid King close to the same spot where we had watched Monster Magnet 20 years ago.  Life long friends in Rock!  So special... The main set closed with a nice communal version of the band's signature (aka biggest "hit") song 'Space Lord'.  "Space Lord motherfucker.."

Sometimes when I go see bands who I was *way* into from 20 or so years ago it's a sad affair.  Hope I die before I get old.  Trying to act like you're in your 20's or 30's when you're in your 40's or 50's can be a sad thing.  So, it was a damn cool thing to see that Wyndorf and Monster Magnet 2013 have recaptured enough of that youthful spacy thing so that it still works.  A testament to this was an encore that included an 11 minute (ELEVEN MINUTE) version of a song off the band's new album... and the song did not suck... far from it actually. I need to buy their new album.

If you bought one of every Monster Magnet merch item you would have paid around $230 I think.  On the way back to the car, some pimply-faced teenagers called me a fag.  I'm typing this out around 24 hours after the show and I'm still tripping on how good Monster Magnet 2013 were.. and I forgot that Wyndorf signed my copy of Spine Of God back in The Day:

 

Give Me Fire

G.B.H.
The Independent, San Francisco
June 3, 2012

From 1981-85 Umlaut was dogmatically and fanatically all about METAL. Although I'd seen Suicidal Tendencies with Slayer a year earlier, the first all Punk show I ever attended was this one back in June 1985:


Crossover A-Go-Go. Tonight's G.B.H. show was only 1 day past the 27th anniversary of that first show! Amazing, right? Ironically, on this same night over in Oakland, Van Halen staggered into town on their geriatric reunion tour. Of course, Van Halen meant alot to me in my Salad Days... but I honestly haven't been a VH fan since 1981. That was the year I discovered Iron Maiden... and it changed everything... which led me on a musical journey that included that night in 1985 when I attended that first Punk show headlined by none other than G.B.H.. Fast forward to the 21st Century and it was a no-brainer that I would choose the $20 G.B.H. ticket over the $200 for Van Halen. Cue some random Eddie Van Halen guitar wank.

The old school energy as G.B.H. took the stage was sharp enough to cut my soul with a knife... and I mean that in a good, life affirming way. The crowd action was steamrolling and the crowd singalongs were heartwarming. As the set stomped through one G.B.H. classic after another it was like traveling back through the years and I returned to a mindset when I wasn't serious about life yet but I was serious about music. I was serious about music and it was all that mattered to me and if the music was aggressive and angry it mattered to me the most. 'Sick Boy', 'Time Bomb', 'Drugs Party In 526'... 'City Baby Attacked By Rats' that went straight into 'City Baby's Revenge'.. 'I Am The Hunted'.. 'Diplomatic Immunity'. Bruising! It's special when you see a veteran band perform their songs and they take you right back to a specific time in your life in a profound way. G.B.H. took me back to that crazy Summer of 1985 immediately, but not just because of the songs. G.B.H. took me back to those days because of the legitimate, angry energy they can still inspire without pandering to nostalgia in any way, shape, or form. Anger can still be an authentic energy even when you're older.

Photo courtesy of Sensory Abuse iPhone

The crowd action during 'Give Me Fire' was as inspiring as any dated Eddie Van Halen guitar solo that was happening over in Oakland at the same moment. This was G.B.H.'s first Bay Area show in almost 4 years and the punks are still 3/4 of the original lineup strong and the drummer has been with them over 15 years. I would also bet ownership of Casa de Umlaut that Colin Abrahall could take both David Lee Roth AND Wolfgang Van Halen out without messing up a single spike of bleached blond hair on his head.

As 'Give Me Fire' started Photo Ray suddenly bolted into the pit action. Woah!! It was an inspiring move and I almost handed my beer to our friend Scott to enter the pit myself... However, I then thought how it would really suck if I turned my ankle in the pit and how it would fuck up my work week. So I held onto my beer and moshed vicariously through Photo Ray and the dozens of other fearless ones. Hope I die before I get old.

As great as the performance was, the most memorable moment of the night came just before G.B.H. came onstage. A guy wearing an old C.O.C. shirt came up and said he reads this blog. He then said his dad was in a band I had written about. I asked what band.. and he said "Y&T".. I asked who his dad was.. and he said "Phil Kennemore". I was speechless for a second. The rest of our brief conversation was profoundly amazing. I told him that his dad was the first "Rock Star" who I ever met and asked for an autograph after a Keystone Palo Alto show (circa 1981). True. R.I.P. Phil... and thank you to his son for giving me a full circle moment like that.

If you bought one of every G.B.H. merch item you would have paid around $240. However, the one aspect of the night where the Punks failed was their merch person left me standing there too long... so I walked away with my $20 still in my pocket. On the way back to the car, some pimply-faced Punks called me a fag. The next shows on the G.B.H. schedule after S.F. were in... Honolulu... Hawaii. That's not very "Atomic Punk"...

Women And Children First Tour
[From the Umlaut Archives]

Early Exit

Weedeater / Saviours / Bison
The Independent, San Francisco
September 30, 2011


A busy but great work day dovetailed into a meet up with Photo Ray and Sensory Abuse at The Irish Bank for some pre-show pints and fish 'n chips. My good mood was harshed a bit by the large number of suits who crowded The Bank for Happy Hour... but ultimately it was all good. Then we few, we happy few, jetted across town to The Independent for a Thursday night of volume.

You know you're seeing a show in The Bay Area when Matt Pike is standing behind you in the Will Call line. Once inside we chatted with Scott of Saviours about subjects ranging from album art to Motörhead merch to the fact that Bison B.C. had lost one of their guitarists after their hometown show in Vancouver only 2 days earlier. DOH. Not long after we were told this gossip, Bison (do they still use B.C.?) walked onstage as an awkward looking 3-piece. This was odd at first since I've seen the band before and as the set started it just didn't feel 100% right. Thankfully the set settled into more of an old Bison groove and got better. I noticed that bassist Masa only had 3 strings on his bass with the 4th peg removed. Has he always done that? I didn't know if it was an avant-garde instrument customization or if his 4th tuning peg had simply broken off. Whatever the case, by the time the newly trimmed version of Bison (B.C.?) walked off stage they seemed like a band again.

I almost had my beer(s) spilled twice during my time in The Independent on this night. Once by an overly excited hipster Metal girl who backed into me... and again by a guy trying to do a stationary kickflip on a skatedeck in front of the bar. What kind of idiot tries to do a stationary kickflip on a skatedeck inside a crowded club?! The look that I gave him must have been authoritative because the kid apologized in a way that gave me grim satisfaction. Now go outside and play in traffic out on Divisidero, you stupid kid..

Saviours are bona fide chick magnets; the shirtless ones drew more females down to the front of the stage than any band I've seen in awhile. Nicely done, lads! I've seen Saviours almost more times than any other current Bay Area band... and I love how the East Bay dudes are complete Road Dogs who constantly tour, tour, tour. Saviours are such a well-oiled Classic Rock-fueled juggernaut now it's awe inspiring.

(Photo courtesy of Photo Ray)

Guitarists Sonny and Austin effortlessly channel the Allman Bros. to Thin Lizzy at the drop of a hat.. and Scott on drums is the second coming of Philthy Animal Taylor both in skills and attitude.. and current bassist Carson would not look out of place in Black Oak Arkansas. The songs from the band's new album (Death's Procession) translate full tilt boogie perfectly live with my favorite song of the set being 'To The Grave Possessed' and its stellar groove dueling axe action... with the old gem 'Into Abaddon' being a close second for me on this night. Well done, men of Saviours... Now put your shirts back on and go forth and do what Rock Star chick magnets do after playing a killer set.

(Photo courtesy of Photo Ray)

Okay, as much as I like Weedeater I bailed before their set started... Yes, a pussy move but I was really tired; I'm old and not afraid to cut my loses when my body asks me "Please can we go home now?" Having seen Weedeater before I have no doubt they laid waste to the Lower Haight... but by the time they were halfway through their set I was probably halfway asleep.

Thanks to Ron Crawlspace for sorting me for the show!

I didn't do a merch audit... but I regretted not bringing cash for the limited edition, embossed, tour only vinyl of the new Saviours album; rookie mistake. On the way back to the car, some pimply-faced teenagers called me a fag. When I woke up the next morning it was Friday... and I had no regrets about my early exit the night before. Everybody's working for the weekend...

A Case Of The Mondays

Fucked Up / Trash Talk
The Independent, San Francisco
July 25, 2011


I had forgotten about this show until a couple of days before... and then I discovered that the infamous Trash Talk were also on the bill. DOH!! It was going to be a F-U-N Monday night in The Haight! Prior to the show Photo Ray, Sensory Abuse, and I met up for some pre-show food 'n beers involving Rosamunde and Toronado.

Then we few, we happy few, walked over to The Independent for what turned out to be one of the best shows of the year.

I've seen Trash Talk described as a band with "two black guys and two white guys". They hail from Sacramento and are infamous for shows that escalate into full-scale brawls. This was one of those rare shows where the sense of danger, or at least that feeling that anything could happen, was thick in the air. Evidently Trash Talk are banned from playing Gilman Street; how Punk is that?!! They are also reportedly banned from playing several cities in the U.K. as well. Trash Talk are also one of those bands who seem to confuse mainstream / clueless music publications as I've seen them called "Metal" by some and "Punk" by others... but they obviously have some juice behind them since besides playing sweaty clubs they've also played major festivals overseas this year like Download in the U.K. and Soundwave in Australia.

It's been a long time since I've seen a crowd terrified by a band... but that's what happened tonight when Trash Talk launched into their set and the singer Lee leaped off the stage during the first song for hand-to-hand combat with the audience. As the floor opened up into a pit for the entirety of the set, the tornado of anger and volume created by Trash Talk was infectious and, while kids around me moved away from the stage, I felt compelled to move closer. Trash Talk in full roar are impossible to keep your eyes off of as Lee roamed the entire length of the club (even ending up on top of the bar at the back of the room at one point) while onstage Garrett (guitar) and Spencer (bass) stalked back and forth feeding off the energy happening in front of them and Sam on drums kept the mayhem focused. Watching Trash Talk was like watching a street gang take apart a rival one limb at a time; at one point Lee returned to the stage, only to take a running leap to land amidst a pile of audience members.

(Photo courtesy of Sensory Abuse)

For much of this year I've been a Jaded Old Fart, but watching Trash Talk take over The Independent reminded me why I got into this Music Geek business in the first place. Seeing a band display such uncut passionate rage is something most people never witness. Onstage the lads from Sacramento remind me alot of the Gallows who up to this point have been one of my absolute favorite live bands. However, with the recent departure of Gallows singer Frank, the time is ripe for Trash Talk to grab my fandom and chain it to the back of their van and hit the gas pedal. After their set I met back up with Photo Ray, Sensory Abuse, and SF Sludge and basically all we could say to each other was "Holy Fuck..."; it felt like we were standing in the aftermath of a horrific car accident and no one had been wearing a seatbelt. Hail Sacramento!

(Photo courtesy of Sensory Abuse)

I've seen Fucked Up described as a band with "the 300 pound singer". As much as I like Fucked Up, I've only managed to see them once before back in February 2009. Fucked Up have evolved into a band that is hard to describe... They started as a Hardcore band but have evolved into almost like a Punk Prog Art Rock thing, with songs that can be downright transcendental. With 3 guitars they create a wall of sound that isn't something brutal that knocks you over, but more like a curtain of volume that lifts your head above the bullshit of the world so you can look down on it and have your eardrums blown out at the same time.

(Photo courtesy of Sensory Abuse)

Fucked Up's songs are beautiful in a non-traditional way that's hard to describe; it's like looking at a gorgeous woman who only has one leg and no arms but who has profound things to say. Onstage their sense of melody combined with Damian's large personality and sense of humor makes them infectious. Whereas Trash Talk brought a darkness and uncertainty to the night, Fucked Up brought a more inspirational balance to the show; maybe it's because they're Canadian. However, as he's known for doing, Damian spent a good part of the set in the crowd as members of the packed audience held his mic cord above the fray.

How many bands dedicate a song to people who collect vinyl? Fucked Up does. If the band has a "hit" song it would probably be the anthem 'Crooked Head' that was the highlight of the set. I'd forgotten how inspiring and life affirming a really great Punk show can be. Tonight featured two bands who channel their anger and angst in different ways. Trash Talk brought the darkness and violence. Fucked Up brought something equally as powerful but from a different point of view. This was hands down one of the best shows of the year... Not bad for a Monday night in San Francisco.

(Photo courtesy of Sensory Abuse)

I didn't do a merch audit but Fucked Up had 3 tees for sale and unfortunately Trash Talk had none. On the way back to the car, some pimply-faced teenagers called us fags. Click HERE to see more of Sensory Abuse's shots from the night.. and click HERE to see Photo Ray's shots of Fucked Up and HERE for his Trash Talk shots.

The next morning (Tuesday) I had one of the shittiest starts to a day in awhile and while I sped to work I cranked Trash Talk... and just when I was starting to be in a better mood I found out that Ludicra, one of my all-time favorite bands and the undisputed headliners of the Bay Area Metal Scene, have called it a day. FUCK... I'm thankful to have seen Ludicra at least 12x over the years... THANKS for the volume inspiration Laurie, John, Christy, Aesop, and Ross. Click HERE for Umlaut's Ludicra memories... FUCK.

Shrinebuilder Redux

Shrinebuilder / Harvestman
The Independent, San Francisco
March 7, 2010


The exciting sequel to Shrinebuilder!

The final night of the supergroup's 3 nights in the Bay Area (Although, Shrinebuilder were also scheduled to play a Nike corporate party in S.F. the next day as well.... SHHH..). I passed on the Saturday show in Oakland even though it was the spiritual highpoint of the band's Bay Area shows; I'm sure the East Bay Crusties were out in full force. However, it was more appropriate for Umlaut to see the band at The Independent. For the newbies: Back in the early-90's xerox Umlaut 'zine days the space was called The Kennel Club and Neurosis, Sleep, AND the Melvins played there dozens of times. There were more than a few shows where they shared the bill, and those nights were life defining times for me, man...

Grotus / Neurosis / Sleep @ The Kennel Club
May 1992

Remember when the Melvins played unannounced as the surprise support band for Neurosis at The Kennel on May 7, 1993 to break in a new bassist named Dave Sahajik (Trivia: He was in the Melvins for ONE brief U.S. Tour before being replaced by Mark Deutrom)? Me too... and the mighty Buzzov-en were the first band on that night as well... Epic.

Speaking of epic: This night will go down as one of Umlaut's favorite nights of the year. The tone was set as we nervously drove down Divisadero at 9:20pm on a Sunday night expecting to spend the next 20-30 minutes looking for parking. Instead we immediately found a spot only 1/2 block away from The Independent! Amazing! Parking karma was in full effect... and the night only got better from there.

Steve Von Till.... errr.... I mean Harvestman was already onstage when we entered and his solo assault sounded even better compared to the San Jose show a couple of nights before. It was also good seeing Steve... I mean Harvestman... on *that* stage again where Neurosis laid down the law so many times. I'm sure there were a good number of ghosts in the room from The Old Days who would agree.

Everything I felt about Shrinebuilder's San Jose set was magnified at least 10x tonight. The sound and lighting at The Independent made a huge difference, and it was obvious from the band's body language onstage that they were in "The Zone", especially Al and Wino. I saw Sleep at least a dozen times and it's cool seeing Al playing with a full band again. He looks comfortable not being the center of attention onstage as he is with OM and it's just great seeing him rocking out once more.


It's beyond cool to see Wino so active (with the Saint Vitus reunion and Shrinebuilder) after the starts and stops he had with The Hidden Hand and Spirit Caravan in recent years. The man is a legend who deserves WAY more than he's gotten to this point. Wino and Lemmy = The only real Rock Stars left IMO. Onstage in San Franfuckincisco you could tell Wino felt things were in "The Zone" as he raised his arms in triumph at least a couple of times after songs and gazed out at the raised fists and hands in front of him. Awesome.

Also, I was in "The Zone" for Shrinebuilder alot more than I had been at the San Jose show. The fact they went on 2 hours earlier at The Independent than they had at The Voodoo Lounge was probably the main reason; yeah, I'm old. Also, I had listened to the Shrinebuilder album 2x again and was much more in tune with the songs. I have to say the weakest part of their set tonight was the Joy Division - 'Twenty Four Hours' cover; an inspired choice for a cover song... but it doesn't really work for me. On the flipside, the set closing 'Pyramid Of The Moon' with it's Drone Doom mantra REALLY sucked me. Can I have my brain back please? WOW.

It's so easy for people to be jaded about Shrinebuilder and debate the "quality" of Shrinebuilder's material, but those people are missing the point IMO. Seeing these 4 iconic musicians onstage together is what makes the band so compelling. They're kindred spirits and that translates onto the stage... You don't see this kind of timeless, legitimate Rock Brotherhood that often, man.

The After Show hang was nostalgic with old friends mingling with band friends. Dale offered us band beers... Al offered us band pizza. Portal live videos on YouTube were watched on an iBook and discussed... and I had an inspiring conversation about Iron Maiden with the drummer of one of my favorite local bands. Steve Von Till.... errr... I mean Harvestman used his mom's car to drive himself and his gear to the show. Good times.

If you bought one of every Shrinebuilder merch item you would have paid around $100. On the way back to the car, some pimply-faced teenagers called us fags. A really great night... and it's cool how you can have a history with a concert space and spending time in that venue can remind you what it felt like to be in your 20's again. Hope I die before I get old.

Dinner And A Show

Pelican / Black Cobra / Sweet Cobra
The Independent, San Francisco
October 27, 2009



Umlaut rolled over to The Independent EARLY (like, 5:30pm)... mainly so I could get some hangtime with my bruthas Black Cobra but also to avoid the pain of trying to park later in the evening. Parking around The Independent is THE worst for any venue in S.F.. Awful. However, my effort paid off as I scored a parking space no more than 100 feet from the venue's entrance. Appropriately, as I got out of the Prius, Black Cobra (Jason and Rafa) were just finishing their load-in, so meeting up with them was just... that... easy. I hadn't seen the lads since just before they left for their 17-date Japan / Australian tour over a month ago so it was good seeing them again... and this show was only the 6th one in their current 24-city U.S. trek with Pelican that runs into December. Road Dogs!

During soundcheck I realized that the thought of getting food afterwards is the best part of a soundcheck if you're not in the band. Dude, I was starving... but the band's run through of the new song 'Chronosphere' sounded really good.


While the band finalized their gear and merch setup, I met up with Dave outside and we headed down the block to Fly, where we were soon joined by the Road Dogs Rafa and Jason. Over dinner we discussed Black Metal, recent Horror movies, and the band's just-completed tour of Japan and Australia. It was cool spending some time with my bruthas just shooting the shit... Not long into the meal, Rafa's friend arrived and informed us that the fucking Bay Bridge was shut down because a cable had snapped, smashed some cars, and generally the entire Bay Area had been thrown into chaos. Metal.

Oddly this leg of the tour featured another band with "cobra" in their name; when was the last time you saw that? Sweet Cobra from Chicago were the first band on... and they were alright... but for whatever reason I kept flashing back to Unsane and that awesome 90's band from Austin, Ed Hall, during their set. Now, I'm not really saying that's who they sound like.. I'm just saying those are the references that flashed in my head as I 50% watched them and 50% went to the bar... Just being honest.

I've ranted about Rafa and Jason in this space plenty of times and how they're simply a force of nature onstage... and I've said before how I trip on how their timings and song structures are more akin to Jazz than Metal. That being said, Black Cobra's new material takes them to even higher levels, with added dynamics that few (if any) 2 piece bands can pull off. Watching them again tonight from up close, I was also profoundly reminded what a tight unit these two musicians are... Not to get too deep into their lives, but Rafa and Jason's brotherhood / friendship is not unlike Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee's (but without the furry feet and homoerotic undertone). They interact onstage in a way that few bands do... They don't speak to one another, but their cues are simply a nod or a look... It's pretty inspiring to watch such mayhem and creativity being performed in such a natural and honest way. The two of them form an aural fist that bludgeons in a way that pulverizes your insides, but your skin isn't broken so there's no blood.... at least that's how Black Cobra live makes me feel. For the record, the band's new song 'Lightning In His Hand' just might be my favorite song of the year.

Wow... after Black Cobra I knew I wasn't going to be engaged by Pelican... Sorry, just being honest. Pelican sounded good during their soundcheck, but granted I was standing outside of the club on the sidewalk talking to Rafa and Jason at the time. I'm not completely sold on Metal bands who play all instrumentals... There needs to be something more for me to get my head around than simply riffs and drumming no matter how good the riffs might be. Pelican are all good musicians, but within minutes of them hitting the stage I kept waiting for a singer to hit the stage... and for me, any Metal instrumental has to be compared to Iron Maiden's classic instrumentals 'Genghis Khan' and 'Transylvania' and I've yet to hear anything to match those. Sorry... just being honest.

Anyway... It was a great night centered around friends as much as volume, since many Umlaut friends were in the house to support Black Cobra. Bottom line: It was nice to welcome the boys home... even if it was for only one night. Keep it real and safe out there you Road Dogs! See you in December..

If you had bought one of each Black Cobra merch item you would have paid just over $100. On the way back to the car, some pimply-faced teenagers called us fags. Umlaut docked the Prius back at Casa de Umlaut at just past 10:30pm... a surgically precise, feel good evening.

OM

OM / Lichens
The Independent, San Francisco
September 24, 2009



According to the Umlaut Archives I saw Sleep at least a dozen times back in The Day. The problem I've had with OM is that no matter what they play, the original lineup of Al and Chris would ALWAYS be 2/3 of Sleep to me... and I simply couldn't get past that. However, now that Chris has reportedly retired from music and Al is working with new drummer Emil Amos, my interest in OM had come back *on* to see what new music Al would create with this new dynamic.

Long story short: Al and I go WAY back... so far back that I remember a time before Sleep... before he was even in a band... before he could buy alcohol legally. So, it was nice that we ran into him as soon as we entered the club and he graciously ushered us back to the dressing room and offered us exotic imported beer from the band's backstage bucket. What does Tecate mean in English anyway?

Umlaut > Al

At one point a guy who I didn't know came into the dressing room and apologized for having his bag next to me on the couch... which was not even a problem.. but he apologized and moved it anyway. Then out of the blue he and Al did a vocal warm up together and the guy headed towards the stage. After a moment I went out to watch Lichens... and realized "Lichens" was the guy who I'd just met backstage... DOH. I caught him mid-song while he was singing acapella and performing some trippy vocal gymnastics. I didn't really know what to make of it... and not to marginalize his performance because it was impressive and unique... but at that moment I went to the bar to get a beer.

As much as I'll always respect Al in his musical travels, OM has never connected with me. However, as Al took the stage with the new drummer and also Lichens (who sat behind a table at stage left with a keyboard, an electric guitar, and some other instruments) I was hopeful that this would be a more fully realized experience for me than the last time I saw OM. They were also joined by Lorraine Rath (who has worked with Amber Asylum in the past) on flute for a song or two.

I enjoyed the first part of the set but, since I'm not familiar with OM's material, I focused more on watching how Al interacted with this latest incarnation of his band.. OM's music isn't necessarily dark.. but it's not happy either... it's somber... serious... and maybe too serious for Umlaut.. After awhile, since I was up in the VIP balcony, I found myself looking down and watching most of the crowd bob their heads and sway to the trance vibe coming from the stage. It was all rather Hippie... and I'm not sure if I mean that in a bad or a good way.


One thing that struck me as I watched OM was that Al is a WAY more spiritual person than I am... and that translates into his music... but I'm in a different mindset and, while I did enjoy this set more than the last time I saw OM, I have to admit it didn't engage me. That being said, as I type this it's 1:00AM and I'm listening to OM's latest CD God Is Good for the first time and I'm feeling the music in this context and environment: Alone with my thoughts... typing these thoughts into words... nothing else.. Maybe this is the way I should listen to OM versus in a crowded club.

Anyway, as OM plays in the background, I must give thanks for spending the evening around Umlaut Nation friends / family... so a shout out to Timo, Lori, Sarah, Richard, Pam, Justin, Alan, and Jen.

No merch audit... but a CD cost $12. On the way back to the car, some pimply-faced teenagers called us fags. It was cool seeing OM at The Independent... For the newbies: Back in The Day the space was called The Kennel Club and Sleep played there many times... many.... times... good... times.

Grotus / Neurosis / Sleep
The Kennel Club - May 1992
(From the Umlaut Archives)

Deja Vu

For the record, Umlaut is having an amazing Music Geek month of April so far...

Green Day
The Independent, San Francisco
April 7, 2009

Let this be the first post of Umlaut's Stalking Tour Manager Doug Tour 2009-10! For the newbies: Click HERE for the details about the last time Umlaut stalked Tour Manager Doug (TMD) around the world while using Green Day as an excuse; the tally was 6 shows in 4 cities and 3 countries.

When this show went onsale online at 3:00PM (a mere 5 1/2 hours before the doors opened) it sold out in less than 5 minutes. It takes a show like this to get Skychick out of the house, but it takes TMD to make it magical! This time TMD waved his magic laminate and Skychick and I found ourselves watching the soundcheck for Green Day's first show in 3 years with maybe 15 other people (most of them band crew):

(Pic by Umlaut)

As the band sorted out parts of new songs before the doors opened, I couldn't believe that we were among the very first people outside of the band's circle hearing the new songs for the first time. I almost soiled myself... figuratively speaking of course. Hmm, during soundcheck the band had an awesome new banner hanging behind the stage featuring a martini glass / upside down cross and a Satanic goat's head... but it was taken down and not seen again that night. Hmmm.

Green Day jumped onstage for the first time in 3 years at around 10:30PM and kicked into 'Welcome To Paradise'... and followed it with an hour of new songs; basically the entire new album I assume. For the record, I think American Idiot is a perfect album; every song is amazing and it's an old school album (i.e. a musical journey where each song tells a chapter of a story) versus simply a collection of songs. The new songs felt exactly the same way; they seemed to be telling a bigger story, but individually they were so great.. Amazing: I think Green Day might have struck music gold again! My initial thought was "This is what it must have felt like when people saw The Who play Tommy for the first time, before the songs became ingrained in music history".. I couldn't believe we were in the first audience hearing these songs. Mindblowing.

The new material was causing "The Who" to pop into my head.. and another song had a guitar part that caused "Mott The Hoople" to pop into my head.. I've been saying this a lot this week, but my head was spinning, this time from the catchiness of the songs, the power of the songs, and the variety of stuff going on in the songs. Also, the 2009-10 version of Green Day has an additional 3rd guitarist (!) in the lineup for the new songs, which makes them the Skynyrd of Power Pop. What song is it you wanna hear? For those stuck in 1994, Green Day haven't been a 3-piece onstage for awhile; they are now a full blown ROCK band with 6 musicians bringing the volume.

After debuting the new album, the band came back and played over an hour of hits and requests from the crowd... starting with 'American Idiot' > 'Jesus Of Suburbia'. Holy fuck! Seeing those songs being played in a club was like seeing an old friend again who I haven't seen in several years, but it felt like no time had passed. Just like at their epic show at The Warfield in 2005, Billie Joe took requests from the audience.. 'F.O.D.' was my fave request.. but 'J.A.R.' was a good one too. They also threw in other oldies like 'Christie Road' and, of course, 'Longview'. After almost 2 1/2 hours, Skychick and I stumbled out onto Divisidero... where we immediately ran into The Sheriff and Mrs. Sheriff.. and The Sheriff was then interviewed by some guy who claimed to be from Spin magazine. Weird.

Green Day are one of those great live bands who don't develop that often... They may have started as Punks, but Green Day here in the 21st Century are a Frankenstein-like hybrid of Punk > Classic Rock > Power Pop all driven by an incredible chemistry between the band members. People who are stuck in 1994 and think Green Day are merely a "Punk" band are completely missing out on one of the greatest ROCK bands ever. Oh well..

According to the Umlaut Archives this was my 11th time seeing Green Day dating back to 1991... and The Independent was the smallest stage I'd seen them on since back at Brave New World (R.I.P.) and that art warehouse space in The Mission; what was the name of that place? Me love Green Day long time.

Thanks to TMD for sorting out my +1. For the newbies: Legend says that Umlaut and Tour Manager Doug met at a Krokus show in 1982... which may or may not be true, but our Inner Metalheads definitely had many playdates together.

If you bought one of every Green Day merch item you would have paid NOTHING because there was none for sale. On the way back to the car, some pimply-faced teenagers called us fags. The Rock Godz have blessed Umlaut this month already, first with Cleveland and now Green Day. Ironically, TMD sent me a text afterwards that The Drummer was visiting his band's dressing room. HAHA!! Man, with all due respect, The Dane should retire and give Tré Cool his rotating drum riser. All the young dudes, carry the news..

If only I could relive this night again...

I Don't Trust Anyone Who Doesn't Use The F-Word

Fucked Up / Mika Miko
The Independent, San Francisco
February 8, 2009

Fucked Up are different type of Punk band.. I've found it hard to explain this to people who haven't heard them, because as soon as I say "Have you heard the band Fucked Up?" some folks can't get past the name. The band's last album, The Chemistry Of Common Life, was one of my favorite albums of 2008.. The album opens with a flute solo (performed by the mom of one of the band members), but then ascends into the most glorious mayhem in recent memory.. Plus, they're Canadian.

I've been wanting to see Fucked Up for a long time but kept missing them... Gilman St... missed 'em.... Hemlock... couldn't make it... So the band's return made my old bones very happy. It also made me happy that despite the rainy night, the Umlaut Nation was nicely represented at The Independent... so a shout out to Timo, Teri, Johnny, Joey, Ray, and Hard Rock Chick.

The main support band, Mika Miko, were punky as all get-out in that Kill Rock Stars way that is still relevant; I also liked how they made comments that took the piss out of the first band. FYI: I'm not even gonna mention the first band by name because they annoyed me far too much, but basically their set seemed to be a musical version of THX-1138 (including costumes and footage from the film projected on a screen). I shit you not.. Now, if they had based their show on Howard The Duck that might have impressed me. Somewhere up in Marin County, George Lucas doesn't care.

Fucked Up played Slayer followed by cello music over the PA before they came onstage.. When they did hit the stage Damian (aka Pink Eyes) was cordial and grateful for the crowd who came out on a rainy Sunday night... but as soon as the 3 guitars, bass, and drums launched into the first song, Damian was transformed into a whirling, 300 pound dervish; at one point he did a cartwheel and spent alot of time in the crowd. He also showed alot of back and ass hair. It was the type of performance where it felt like anything could happen, and gigs don't have that vibe very often these days..

They blasted through raw renditions of 10 songs, with 'No Epiphany' being the stand out for me. Damian also free styled a song about Berkeley, Oakland, and S.F., but I have to take his word for it because I couldn't understand everything he was ad libbing, but he gets an "A" for effort. The set closed with a raucous version of 'Police' dedicated to Oscar Grant and his family (The band had played a benefit for his family at Gilman St. earlier in the day)... and then Jello Biafra joined them onstage for the encore:

'Blitzkrieg Bop'
(Video by Umlaut - Watch with the "HQ" option)

For those keeping score, this was the 3rd show in a month that found Jello and Umlaut in the same room; it feels alot like 1992 these days. Trivia: The naked guy who jumped on Damian's back was thrown out onto the sidewalk by the club's bouncers soon after he jumped into the crowd.. Yes, he was still naked. Just another rainy Sunday night in The Lower Haight, man.

Fucked Up are the type of band who could change a kid's life. Seriously. They are D.I.Y. in the best sense of the term... They have a charismatic front man and play the shit out of their instruments. They write intelligent songs about engaging subjects, such as their contempt for organized religion... They play aggressive songs you can play loud and fuck shit up... The creativity they display in the studio (such as layering 18 guitar tracks into one song to create a wall of sonic beauty) shows their vision is larger than most bands in their genre.. They put on great shows... They have a sense of humor.. They know how important vinyl albums and limited edition 7" singles are to the Music Geek experience. I wish I could be a naive teenager again to discover Fucked Up and have them steer me on the course to Music Geek enlightenment. Amen.

Gallows hoodies = 1 (mine). If you bought one of every Fucked Up merch item you would have paid around $115. On the way back to the car, some pimply-faced teenagers called us fags. I found it odd that The Independent censored the band's name on the flyer for the show that was plastered all over S.F., but they didn't censor it on their marquee. San Francisco can be so uptight and PC here in the 21st Century.. The "*" is a sign of repression, man.

On another note, Umlaut just received a nice e-mail from Rob of Amebix in response to my rant about their S.F. show last month. It made my morning... cue more coffee!

No Sleep 'Til Alcatraz

Thanks to the Rock Godz, Umlaut was able to skate onto The List for Social Distortion at The Fillmore.

Social Distortion
The Fillmore, San Francisco
January 5, 2008

Posted on the band's web site:

TONIGHT'S SHOW SATURDAY, JANUARY 5, IS POSTPONED DUE TO ILLNESS. Due to illness, Social Distortion are forced to cancel tonight Saturday, January 5, 2008. Rescheduled show information is forthcoming. Please hold onto your tickets until further information is posted. The band apologizes for this incredible inconvenience.

It was incredibly gracious of Social D. to cancel the show because Miatomic, who was going to be Umlaut's +1, wasn't feeling well. Nicely done, Orange County, nicely done.

The Head Cat
The Independent, San Francisco
January 10, 2008



I must admit I was dubious about what kind of performance this would be... Lemmy performing with his "rockabilly side project"?? Also in the mix was Slim Jim Phantom of Stray Cats on drums and a guitarist who wasn't Fast Eddie. It could go either way, ya know? However, if anything, it was a chance to see Lemmy in the smallest venue he's played in the area since the 80's.

Well, I'm happy to report it went the *right* way; the set was like a journey through Lemmy's record collection! He and the band shook the stage for a good 75 minutes and played songs by the likes of Eddie Cochran ('Somethin' Else'), Buddy Holly ('Not Fade Away'), CCR ('Suzie Q'), Johnny Cash ('Big River'), Johnny Kidd & The Pirates ('Shakin' All Over'), a great version of Larry Williams' 'Bad Boy', and a storming set closing rendition of 'Crossroads'. Also, as a nod to Slim Jim's old band, they did a barn burning rendition of the Stray Cats hit 'Rock This Town' with Slim on vocals. Nice Nice.

Besides the rollicking setlist, it was cool to see Lemmy loose and having fun onstage.. You could tell this is the music he loves and it was inspiring to see a Rock God being a Music Geek in public. Metalheads may still say "WTF..".. but if they paid attention it would be obvious Motörhead has always been encased by these influences. I'd say a good number of vintage MH songs like 'Dance' and 'No Class' would easily fit into rockabilly versions.. etc. etc. etc. Plus, Lemmy was wearing the most amazing pair of white creepers, which caught my attention 'cause with Motörhead he's always wearing white cowboy boots.

Thanks to Old Metal Steffan, Mark D. and Umlaut were escorted back for an audience with Mr. Kilmister.

Mark D. > The Head Cat > Umlaut

The first time Umlaut met Lemmy was in 1983 when Big Wayne, John Silence, and I interrupted him as he was drinking at a venue's bar (The Stone, S.F.).. Stupid kids! Fast forward to the 21st Century:

Music Geek Moment #1: Jammed into the tiny dressing room, sitting 2 feet from Lemmy, as a conversation about Allen Ginsberg, The Beats, J. Edgar Hoover in women's underwear, and Gram Parsons' cremation swirled around the room. Surreal.

Best Quote: "Gram Parsons?? Was he in the Alan Parsons Project??" (By a drunk friend-of-a-friend of Lemmy's during the above conversation)... Cue Umlaut slapping his own forehead with the palm of his hand in disbelief. This was followed by Lemmy cracking wise about the homoerotic qualities of the band name The Flying Burrito Brothers.. Non-Music Geeks can use Wikipedia to understand all of this.

Music Geek Moment #2: Chatting with Slim Jim Phantom and mentioning how I was a fan of Stray Cats AND that I'd seen Phantom, Rocker, & Slick (his post-Stray Cats band with Lee Rocker and Earl Slick). Slim's reaction was "YOU DID?! Only the first album was good...". Funny.

Also, a bottle of Jack Daniels was placed on the dressing room food table next to the obligatory cheese, cold cuts, bread, and other Rock Star food items. Lemmy: Keepin' it real.

Back in The Prius on the drive home, the first song iPod on shuffle played was 'Not Fade Away' by Buddy Holly... I shit you not! The Head Cats played it.. It's one of Umlaut's all-time favorite songs... iPod played it.. The Rock Godz work in mysterious ways.

Thanks to Umlaut's Old Metal Brutha Steffan for making the night happen.

Venom shirts = 2. I completely spaced on doing a merch audit, but The Head Cat did have a shirt for sale. On the way back to the car, some pimply-faced teenagers called us fags. It's been almost 30 years (!) since the first time Umlaut met Lemmy and I still geeked out over it. Hope I die before I get old.

"C'mon Newcastle, let's hear it for the road crew!"

Bands Of Brothers

Trivia: 3/4 of the bands in this post feature siblings in their lineups. Discuss amongst yourselves.

The Jesus & Mary Chain
The Fillmore, San Francisco
October 26, 2007

Band Of Brothers: Jim (vox) and William (guitar) Reid.

As I drank my beer (Thanks Raymond!) I remembered that 20 years ago (TWENTY YEARS!?) I was at The Fillmore seeing JMC... The Darklands Tour... The first time I saw a show at The Fillmore.. The Reid Brothers had a drum machine instead of a drummer. I'm sure I was drunk or stoned. These two nights at The Fillmore here in the 21st Century were the first JMC shows in S.F. in some years.

You know, Jesus & Mary Chain have been one of my favorite bands for a long, long time.. but I kinda look at them through rose-colored glasses because, truth be told, they've never been the most stellar live band. Tonight was no exception.

All the hits were rolled out... I mean, 'Head On' was the second song of the set.. and hearing others like 'Just Like Honey', 'Darklands', and 'Some Candy Talking' were gleat.. but I'm just not into the shoegazing stage demeanor at this point in my life; love the songs though.. I also still worship William Reid's guitar tone. Fookin' gleat, dontchaknow... Oh, and the drummer from Ride was onstage with them too.. and you know he's gazed at his shoes a good bit in the past.

If you bought one of every Jesus & Mary Chain merch item you would have paid $150. On the way back to the car, some pimply-faced teenagers called us fags. Speaking of cars: As we walked back to the car I received a text from Miatomic informing me that she had recovered her beloved car that had been stolen a month earlier!! STUNNING.

"... and the way I feel tonight, I could die and I wouldn't mind."

High On Fire / Mono
The Independent, San Francisco
October 28, 2007

High On Fire's latest album is their best one yet and the local lads have definitely taken things to the next level. Their two night homecoming stand at The Independent was a highlight of Umlaut's Rocktober calendar for sure, like, totally.

The Umlaut Nation was out in force on this evening, but my communication with everyone should have been better since I didn't know some of them were going to be there.. Sorry.. but a shout out to Todd, Lori, Timo, Johnny, Joey, Eric, Raymond, Robin, and John.

Under different circumstances I would have really dug Mono... but I just wasn't in the mood for bombastic Japanese rock instrumentals tonight. That being said I did venture to their merch table after their set to get one of their CDs, but the line was too long... so I bailed.

High On Fire remind me of another local Bay Area Metal band who rose out of the local scene many years ago. They have that same kind of fire and charisma onstage... Let's just hope Matt and company don't decide to film a self-serving documentary about their personal lives anytime soon. Just keep it about the music, lads... Keep it about the MUSIC.

Man, as much as I love High On Fire, their merch was really underwhelming; if only there was another merch company out there for them. If you bought one of every High On Fire merch item you would have paid over $315. On the way back to the car, some pimply-faced teenagers called us fags. Before the gig I realized that the laundromat on the corner of Divisadero / Hayes is now the fancy restaurant I've been hearing about for awhile. Wow... I need to get out more.

Gojira
Slim's, San Francisco
October 29, 2007

Band Of Brothers: Joe (vox / guitar) and Mario (drums) Duplantier.

BONJOUR FRENCH METAL! This was Gojira's first visit to S.F. and, although they were 2nd on the bill, the crowd treated them as if they were the headliners (who, for the record, were Behemoth and Job For A Cowboy..). A chant of "Gojira!! Gojira!" started up before the band even hit the stage... and when they did hit the stage the packed crowd was going OFF from the first note. C'est manifique!

Fook me... but Gojira was the most brutal live band I've seen in awhile.. Machine like precision and monstrous stage presence. It was cool hearing a singer say "MERCI BEAUCOUP!!" but in a tone that other Metal singers say "MOTHERFUCKER!".. The French have such a beautiful way of saying things (*sigh*).

This was the type of show that reminded me why I love going to Metal shows most of all... In the line out front a couple of Metal kidz asked if they'd be able to get in even though they were under 18.. To quote Neil Young: "Old man, take a look at my life, I'm a lot like you were.." The kidz got in of course... However, Timo and I bailed after Gojira 'cause it was a Monday night... so I suppose we were fronting (as they say in The 'Hood).. but at least those kidz will carry on our Metal legacy. Go forth and do great things in the name of METAL, my lads.

Gojira only had 1 shirt, their 2 CDs, and their live DVD for sale.. but no prices were posted. Oh well. On the way back to the car, some pimply-faced teenagers called us fags. Ummm... I'm hungry for some French food right about now.. NO ONE does trout like the French, man. No one.

Redd Kross
Slim's, San Francisco
November 9, 2007

Band Of Brothers: Jeff (vox / guitar) and Steve (bass) McDonald.

Wow.. I couldn't believe it had been 10 years (TEN YEARS?!) since the last time Redd Kross played in S.F.!! Redd Kross are one of my all time favorite bands - Top 5 for sure. Remember when they'd open with their note perfect cover of 'Deuce' that included a perfect recreation of KISS' 1975 stage choreography? Me 2. Were you at the Butthole Surfers / Redd Kross show? Me 2! Did you see The Spirit Of '76 in the theater when it came out? ME 2!! Redd Kross are a band that takes me back to a very specific time in my life and their music reminds me of very specific people... but in a good way.

Twas the original Neurotica era lineup and they opened with some OLD songs: 'Linda Blair' > 'Annette's Got The Hits'.. It was a time warp, man... 'Annette's Got The Hits'! Wow.. Every time I've seen Redd Kross, since Day 1, I've always had a smile on my face during the show.. and here in the 21st Century it was no different.

Trivia: The 1984 Teen Babes From Monsanto record has only been released on CD as a 1992 Australian Tour CD. Good luck finding it... but I can burn it for you if you want. Umlaut went through a maniacal Redd Kross geek phase once upon a time... so I have all that stuff. Just lemme know.

The show was billed as "career spanning" and it was.. Pretty much all of the old hits were trotted out: 'Blow You A Kiss In The Wind', 'Annie's Gone', 'Jimmy's Fantasy', 'Frosted Flake', etc. etc. The kicker was the band played the songs in chronological order, which was a nice touch.. The band would play 2-3 songs from an early release, followed by 2-3 songs from the next record, and so on.. and then start the cycle over again. Besides that they also threw in a couple of surprises.

Back in The Day, Redd Kross were the quintessential Music Geek / Pop Culture band.. At their last S.F. show 10 years ago (TEN YEARS?!) they pulled out a cover of my fave Kinks song 'Til The End Of The Day'.. and here in the 21st Century they lived up to that by performing an out-of-left field cover of PJ Harvey's 'Rid Of Me'... Woah!

Of course, the set closed with 'Peach Kelli Pop'.. The definitive Redd Kross song, right? Dude, they played for 2 hours and it was so much fun seeing the McDonald brothers onstage again.. They may have cut off their matching waist-length hair years ago, but the spirit is still there. Dog Bless Them!

At one point Steve McDonald name checked S.F. clubs Redd Kross has played over the years: The Farm, The On Broadway, The I-Beam, The Kennel Club... Nicely done. R.I.P. all of them.

If you bought one of every Redd Kross merch item you would have paid $30; the 2 shirts for sale were the same ones they sold 10 years ago. Good thing someone kept them in their attic! On the way back to the car, some pimply-faced teenagers called us fags. This was one of those shows that reminded me of where I've been... but in a good way.

"Laughing at all the assholes at The Rainbow flying high on coke... what a joke."

One Dahc Night

Little Steven's Underground Garage A-Go-Go Tour with:
New York Dolls / Supersuckers / The Chesterfield Kings
The Independent, San Francisco
November 8, 2006

Ironically, on the same night the New York Dolls came back to town, another legendary band also played the Bay Area with only 2 surviving original members: The Who were onstage 50 minutes south of S.F. in San Jose. Don't cry, don't raise your eyes.

Tickets for The 'Oo were priced at $150 EACH for the best seats, while tics for the New York Dolls were a mere $20.. Dollar for dollar, I suspect this show had more genuine Rock 'N Roll attitude than The Who, but I would also venture to guess that the crowd at The Independent had a higher percentage of lame weekend warrior music posers than The Arena in San Jose.

The concept of the Little Steven's Underground Garage A-Go-Go Tour is cool, but it's LAME because it's executed in such a calculated corporate way. I don't want to rehash myself since I already ranted about this bullshit a mere 2 months ago, so I'll simply say that I saw no guys glammed out at this show like there were at The Dolls' previous S.F. show 2 years ago.

As at the previous Underground Garage Tour show, an annoying DJ from local Rock radio 107.7 The Bone hosted the event and $1 Rolling Rock coupons were given out like crack to whores. Note to the DJ: While I like pre-70's Jazz as much as the next person, if you're emceeing a ROCK concert and you're representing a ROCK radio station, at least wear a fucking ROCK t-shirt and not a Billie Holiday one. Next up: A double shot of Eddie Money.

Best Quote - John (When The Bone's DJ announced the $1 Rolling Rock coupons): "Can you trade three for a better beer?"

The Chesterfield Kings had the right haircuts, clothes, and guitars but their retro stylings screamed "cover band" more than anything else. The Singer's faux Iggy schtick culminated in an "impromptu" climb onto a PA cabinet.. The gesture's scripted nature was given away by a roadie walking across the stage midsong to get into position to take and hold the mic while The Singer got up on the cabinet.. Then the roadie handed the mic back when Mr. Frontman climbed / fell back onto the stage.. at which point the roadie walked back across the stage to his original position; cue coffee break. Note: Iggy didn't have a roadie assisting him with the peanut butter in 1970 Cleveland:


I've been seeing the Supersuckers since back when they only had a couple of 7" singles out (For the newbies: During Bush Sr.'s Administration), but recently I hadn't seen them since the night after Johnny Ramone died. As much as I respect them as a band, seeing the Supersuckers once every 2 years or so has always been enough for me; I suppose they're like my own private mid-term election. They played a nice mix of their Rock and Country tunes, with a reworked 'Creepy Jackalope Eye' being a highlight for me. The Supersuckers are one band who would benefit from having some pyrotechnics onstage.

Unfortunately, the evening was marred by Umlaut friend Teri having to battle wits with a hideous "DAHC" (Drunk Aging Hipster Chick), but Teri is far more Old School than DAHC could ever comprehend and she prevailed. However, I have a couple of notes for DAHC:

• Honey, the heavy makeup to hide your meth and alcohol ravaged face ain't working.
• Trying to pick a fight with another woman ain't sexy like in Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!; you are NOT a character in a Russ Meyer film... not even close. To quote The Dolls: "Trash, don't pick it up!"

Anyway, like, The Dolls ruled!! I don't want to rehash myself, so I'll simply repeat what I said 2 years ago after seeing them at The Fillmore: "Okay, YES it was only 2/5 of the old Dolls.. but that 2/5 had more genuine attitude and charisma than entire bands I've seen recently."

They played around 5 songs from their new album, which meshed well and sounded great next to the old classics... but the highlight of the night for me was a brutalicious version of 'Jet Boy'.

The Dolls during 'Jet Boy' (Pic by Umlaut)

I must also note how great David Johansen (56 years old) and Sylvain Sylvain (57 years old) are onstage and how they looked even better and more in fighting shape than on their last visit to S.F.. Hope I die before I get old.. Age IS only a number (except for DAHC).

I gotta close by saying how I started tripping on the fact I was seeing The Dolls at the Kennel Club (For the newbies: The Independent space has been several concert clubs over the decades, with the early-90's incarnation called The Kennel Club being nearest to my heart..).. So many of my old favorite bands, past and present, played on that stage (Nirvana, L7, Melvins, The Fluid, Neurosis, Jesus Lizard, Alice Donut, The Stimmies, Monster Magnet, Gallon Drunk, Sleep, etc. etc. etc.).. and then when The Dolls played their final encore of 'Piece Of My Heart' I tripped on the fact that we were only a couple of blocks from the house where Janis Joplin lived on Lyon @ Oak Street back in the Hippie Shit Days.

Rock Star Sighting = Flamin' Groovies guitarist Cyril Jordan. Cheap Trick shirts = 1 (mine). If you bought one of every Dolls merch item you would have paid $40. On the way back to the car, some pimply-faced teenagers called us fags. If you run into DAHC on the Streets Of San Francisco ask how old she is and then comment "Uhh, wow... you look MUCH older....wow.." and then snicker to yourself or if you're with someone pretend to whisper something in their ear and then both of you snicker. To quote The Dolls: "Like Frankenstein, like Frankenstein..."