The Heavy at Brooklyn Bowl
I didn't realize quite how popular these guys are. The Heavy's video for How You Like Me Now? is approaching nine million views. Check 'em out on Facebook too.
Posted: 8/25/2013 at 3:12pm Tags: AfroPunk Fest Afterparty Brooklyn Bowl The Heavy
The Skins at Brooklyn Bowl
Someday people will stop introducing The Skins by pointing out how young they are buuuuut... not just yet. When the band formed they were all teenagers, and even now nobody in the band is over 21. So yeah, they're a young rock band, specifically hard rock with hints of funk and metal. But that's not such a rare thing as of late, is it? It seems to me that I keep hearing about really young rock bands. Wasn't there a 11-year old metal band in the news recently?
Instead, let's talk staying power. When I saw The Skins a year ago (at the Brooklyn Bowl in fact) they sounded good but were awkward on stage. Some of 'em just stood there and played. Since that time they have gone from opening to support spots with the occasional headlining gig. They toured Europe and the U.S. with The Heavy. They have spent another year on stage and it really shows. Now they know how to grab the audience's attention. Now they know how to show off during a solo. Plus they sound even tighter than before.
For some reason The Skins haven't released a full album. Getting your finances together is not one of the advantages of being young. But I get the feeling it'll happen right around the time they schedule their first solo tour. Most likely next Summer because, you know, classes and all that.
Posted: 8/13/2013 at 4:16pm Tags: Brooklyn Bowl The Skins
Mungo Jerry at Brooklyn Bowl
A couple of people are probably wondering what Mungo Jerry sounds like these days. Yes, we all know the band from that song, and lead singer Ray Dorset from those sideburns (which are gone now). But what does the band sound like now, especially with Dorset being the only original member left?
Well, based on this show I would have to say that the folky style of their famous singles is still there.The occasional wailing guitar solo and weightier subject matter point to some blues influences. Much of their music qualifies as pop, but nothing too saccharine. The songs are catchy but perhaps a touch formulaic. Lots of 'em end by repeating the same phrase over and over, for example. Still, Dorset can definitely still sing, so I have the feeling that Mungo Jerry will exist as long as he can find a band to back him.
Posted: 8/6/2013 at 8:28pm Tags: Brooklyn Bowl Mungo Jerry New York Night Train
Apache at Brooklyn Bowl
I was kind of hoping that this show would be as up close and personal as their last one, but oh well. Apache rocked and that is enough.
Posted: 8/5/2013 at 9:45pm Tags: Apache Brooklyn Bowl New York Night Train
White Mystery at Brooklyn Bowl
I know they're brother and sister, but are the White siblings twins? I swear, these two not only look so similar (not that I can see their faces with all that hair in the way) but rock out the same too.
Posted: 8/5/2013 at 9:45pm Tags: Brooklyn Bowl New York Night Train White Mystery
Dick Dale at Brooklyn Bowl
Not only does Dick Dale sound incredible and work that guitar like a master, but it appears that the King of the Surf Guitar has picked up some drumming skills as well. Possibly some kung-fu moves too by the looks of it.
Posted: 7/28/2013 at 3:35pm Tags: Brooklyn Bowl Dick Dale
Great White Caps at Brooklyn Bowl
I hadn't heard of Great White Caps but dang, they are really something. I guess the problem is that they're from Bethlehem, PA, which presents many problems if you're into surfing. They need to come to NYC more often. We have beaches, they have surf rock we want to hear. That's a fair trade, right?
Posted: 7/28/2013 at 1:21pm Tags: Brooklyn Bowl Great White Caps
