Modern Surf Classics
John Reis was an amiable host for the evening. He acknowledged to his fans, many of whom were probably there because of his other projects, that surf music wasn't everybody's bag. He asked that we indulge him and The Blind Shake for about 45 minutes, though, and encouraged everyone to dance. Then, he and the relentless Minneapolis band proceeded to reel off selections from their recent Modern Surf Classics collaboration.
About three-fourths of the way through the first song, I think surf music -- at least of the Swami John Reis and The Blind Shake variety -- became everybody's bag. The Blaha brothers went absolutely crazy, the beads around their necks bouncing against their Hawaiian shirts. Drummer Dave Roper was a force of nature behind the drums. The sounds they put out were a combination of surf rock and garage rock, and they rarely let up for even a second. People danced. Someone jokingly shouted, "Hey! How about playing something aggressive for a change?"
Between songs, Reis smiled, wiped the sweat from his hands, and sheepishly apologized for having to tune so often. He passed out PBR tallboys to the audience from a six-pack onstage. But once the music started up again, it was all out craziness.
Brooklyn's So So Glos started things off (significantly later than the advertised 9pm. Not their fault, probably; but it did mean that Rocket From The Crypt superfan, Scotch LaRock, would miss the headliners since he had to go to work.). They played a set heavy with new songs that also included most of the standout tracks from their most recent effort, BLOWOUT. The band mentioned that they were working on a new record.
This same combo hits Manhattan's Mercury Lounge tonight and Swami and The Blind Shake take on The Black Box at Philly's Underground Arts on Saturday. If there's any chance for you to catch either of those shows, don't blow it.
Here are photo highlights from last night. There are more, as always, at Flickr.
One of the top 3 best shows I have ever seen....GREAT!
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