If you go to the Double Down Saloon expecting audio precision you'll often end up disappointed. However, if you want to experience real, live, in-your-face rock 'n' roll then it's the place to be. You're so close to the performers that you feel their sweat, and the ringing in your ears is a constant day-after reminder. Last Friday was no exception, although the bands didn't actually start playing until after midnight; which is pretty damn late for people who worked all day. With not one, but two, of L.A.'s finest garage rock outfits on the bill, it was well worth the wait, plus DJ Bazooka Joe was on hand spinning selections from his extensive and eclectic record collection.
The explosive SuperBees never fail to launch a ferocious sonic onslaught of pure garage rock on your unsuspecting eardrums. The well-crafted lyrics coupled with unrelenting, buzzing guitars and a driving beat forced most of the crowd to their feet. Dave James has perfected his snarling vocals, along with his rock star moves, while guitarist Scott Carlson, bassist Dat Ngo and drummer Johnny Sleeper simply shredded their way through a set mainly from their Acetate Records release High Volume. Really Wanna Know is the 'Bees theme song with its catchy "Buzz, buzz, buzz around" chorus, while Dirty and Run Rabbit, Run are slightly more sinister, but just as hook-filled.
After a short break, it was time for The Flash Express to funk things up. Charismatic frontman/guitarist Brian Waters was suffering from a sore throat and a persistent cough, but the fans picked up the slack and filled in on vocals throughout their short set. The R&B-tinged trio, rounded out by Lance Porter on drums and Tommy Branch on bass, throws down scorching grooves you just have to dance to and back it up with attitude galore. The rifting Who Stole The Soul? ponders how the hell can you "get down to Blink 182" and Beat That Kills proclaims "we're gonna rock the floor to the ceiling," which is something this band does every time they come to town. The Flash Express' much-anticipated full-length album will finally be released on Hit It Now Records next month.
