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On the heels of their CD Release Party, happening sometime in May, local rock band Drag played a gig at Zen Sushi to an asthetically-pleasing audience at Midnight. Closing for undercards The Letter Openers and the Ebbs who sufficiently shredded the stage in preparation for guitarist Kevin Darish's usually chaotic cavoring on stage, Drag kicked their set off in their usual time-honored, no-frills fashion, pushing their brand of down-and-dirty pop and blues influenced rock. Vocalist/bassist Dominique Davalos, known for playing in the famed band The Delphines (with Go-Go-er Kathy Valentine) crunched her trademark cries and smooth basslines with ease, while quipping about the large number of "hot girls" that were in the crowd. Vocalist/guitarist Kevin Darish volleyed with his own set of weapons, including a disarming falsetto voice rocked to perfection and balanced by his simple shredding on both his guitars. Drummer Kevin Caetans kept the pace well, despite combatting a flu bug. Drag will be releasing their new album "Loose Like Brando" next month. Their show is definitely something not to miss.

by: Aaron Settipane

Headlining the Punk Rock Social at the Anarchy Library in Downey, Blockage drove home a hard-driving night of local punk rock music. Infused by poppy hooks, a no-frills delivery and an old-skool 70s-esque feel, Blockage gave justification to the otherwise unusual environment that is the Anarchy Library. Hailing from OC, but calling themselves "SoCal's Finest Punk Fueled Rock", Sean, Juan, Dave and Frank laid down an unpretentious night of hard rock that even members of the notorious biker gang The Mongols stayed to enjoy, capping an evening of surprisingly good live rock.

by: Aaron Settipane

Orange County indie band The Colour spent the latter part of 2004 getting acclimated to the oft-times pretentious Hollywood music scene. Yet as some bands clamor for airplay on Indie or KCRW, The Colour has coolly climbed their way up, this time opening for up-and-coming national act Eisley at the Troubadour. In what seems to be their typical fashion, they surprised an audience of mostly Eisley and The Elected fans (there was a small contingent of Colour fans!) with a new bassist and a strong, indie-influenced groove with a little disco swing. Their lead singer Wyatt snakecharmed the ladies in the front row with his Jim Morrisson-esque looks and swagger. The Colour delivered a highly effective, fun opener to what turned out to be a great show at the Troubadour.

by: Aaron Settipane

More on this Artist:  www.thecolour.tv

Christopher Hawley took the stage at a quaint pub across from Hooters, where no one goes for wings. This simple set up with a stripped down drum kit and acoustic guitar lent itself to the small stage perfectly. Britannia, in Santa Monica, is a family-owned bar featuring Fish and Chips, Shepard¹s Pie and all the Euro football games you desire. I first saw Chris at 14 Below where I thought the room to be a little too spacious for his act. The relaxed and cozy atmosphere at Britannia fit Chris’s music like hand in glove. His deep vocals resonate and are clean through the many ranges he possesses. His resourcefulness is clear with the use of a live sampler to double his guitar lines and allow himself to play lead lines over the rhythms. For a two-man show (Chris and an accompanying percussionist) he really knows how to beef up the act. In addition, his band can be seen taking many forms as "The Rollers" are exactly that, a rotating group of musicians Chris utilizes at different times to support his live shows. If Johnny Cash and Eric Clapton are your forte check out Christopher Hawley.

by: Jennifer Vega

More on this Artist:  www.christopherhawley.net

Erinn Williams : Tangier

The lead singer of the band Purple Planet hosted her own solo gig at Tangier recently to an appreciative and mesmerized crowd. Her rail-thin body and trademark deadpan humor added charm to a fantastic small-crowd performance. Her operatic styling coupled with emotional, well-written songs presented deep and satisfying musical showcase. Williams’ polished talent blended cleanly with the lackadaisical style of the show and harmonized with the haunting notes creeping from the guitar of Joel Martinez (also the guitarist for artist Zack Hexum). Williams lets loose a bit more intimately in her solo presentations when compared to her shows with Purple Planet and is a strong recommendation the next time she plays an L.A. gig.

by: Aaron Settipane

The Baked Potato is home to no less than some of the best musicians in town, and Upper Structure was no disappointment. A band that is truly enjoying the music, brings a skill level that is not only interesting to the ears, but is great fun to watch. Embracing a hip hop, R&B style with a little bit of everything thrown in between, the music is a journey, with heartfelt messages. Vocalist/Rapper, Flutist, Saxophonist, Katisse Buckingham brings that "front man" persona the likes of which is both interesting and compelling, at times bordering on familiar, but more often than not unique and left of center, keeping you compelled to see what instrument or lyric comes next. Kate Higgins, vocalist, has a phenomenal voice, and not only brings that little extra texture to the tunes, but can hang even with the best of the musicianship, following note for note. I don't have the space to go into how great the band is, if you want to see some great players rip it up, check out Upperstructure! Take a second to check out "Customer Nervous," a moving tune that musically and lyrical is great fun. The band just released their debut CD at this show, which is available through the Upperstructure website.

by: TLAMS

More on this Artist:  www.upperstructure.com

The Baked Potato is home to no less than some of the best musicians in town, and Upper Structure was no disappointment. A band that is truly enjoying the music, brings a skill level that is not only interesting to the ears, but is great fun to watch. Embracing a hip hop, R&B style with a little bit of everything thrown in between, the music is a journey, with heartfelt messages. Vocalist/Rapper, Flutist, Saxophonist, Katisse Buckingham brings that "front man" persona the likes of which is both interesting and compelling, at times bordering on familiar, but more often than not unique and left of center, keeping you compelled to see what instrument or lyric comes next. Kate Higgins, vocalist, has a phenomenal voice, and not only brings that little extra texture to the tunes, but can hang even with the best of the musicianship, following note for note. I don't have the space to go into how great the band is, if you want to see some great players rip it up, check out Upperstructure! Take a second to check out "Customer Nervous," a moving tune that musically and lyrical is great fun. The band just released their debut CD at this show, which is available through the Upperstructure website.

by: TLAMS

More on this Artist:  www.upperstructure.com

Drag : The Joint

In an evening which featured many local artists, Drag played a rousing set to a surprised and energized crowd at The Joint. Featuring Dominque Davalos (formerly of the famous indie band The Delphines) and Kevin Darish (formerly of the infamous band Screaming Mad George) with drummer Kevin Darish (previously of the band Velvet), this trio plowed through their set of hard-rocking songs of broken relationships and out of control significant others with the precision of professionals and the unmistakable chemistry, characteristic of what makes Drag such a rewarding and refreshing band. Musically, Drag swings indie-pop-rock, flush with a more refined and polished edge than most bands of comparable size; they present a solid, tight, straight-edged rock show fueled by seasoned musicianship, with a slight peppering of sexuality by Davalos’ Chrissie Hynde-esque presence and Darish’s partially bare-chested, wild and unpredictable playing style (accompanied by the mysterious electrical fire to boot!)

by: Aaron Settipane

More on this Artist:  www.thewakinghours.com

Honeybreath : Maurizio's (Glendale)

Performing in the illustrious vein of The Cure or The Smiths, and doing them absolute justice, local classic alternative artist Honeybreath played captivating, but abbreviated set to a truly surprised crowd at Maurizio’s in Glendale. Fresh off of their recent gig at Tempest in West Los Angeles, Honeybreath surprised the audience of about 50 with a dark yet sugary-sweet set, enchanting every ear with their haunting and deeply melodic sounds. Honeybreath is one of the few bands in the scene not trying to push a chord-driven, hard charging monster sound, rather yielding to the bewitching echos of their lead and rhythm guitars and the entrancing yet engrossing vocals of statuesque singer Chanell. Honeybreath presents an invitingly adumbral feeling of elation and depression, fetching for the types of aficionados infatuated with 80s stalwarts like Morrissey, whose music was not overshadowed by fashion and good looks, but was complimentary to the overall style and substance of the emotions and messages conveyed. Although, their gigging dates sometimes fall into the few and far between.

by: Aaron Settipane

More on this Artist:  www.thewakinghours.com

The Waking Hours : The Viper Room

Recently the Viper Room changed management, staff and a new Monday night line-up, presented by the classic alternative revolutionaries 103.1 FM and Filter Magazine. Opening for local phenom The Like, and preceding another local phenom The Dollyrots, The Waking Hours proved to be a force to be reckoned with whether you liked it or not, effectively stealing the thunder from the headliner. Fueled by the mysteriously cool charm from Tom Richards on lead vocals, blistering backup from drummer Ricky Tubb and the adorably aggressive, yet aggressively elegant style of bassist Lisa Mychols, Waking Hours generated a powerful lightning strike punch on Viper and set the stage for the night ahead. Particularly potent was their passionately played power cover of LL Cool J’s “Mama Said Knock You Out”, which became a charmingly crafted crush of electronic sound and fury, a distortion frenzy fusion of guitars and bass, screaming vocals and electric energy culminating in a seemingly sexual simulation of guitar sex on stage, resulting in Richards tossing his guitar into the audience with his teeth, then tossing himself into the audience thereafter, while Mychols and Tubb took a theatrical bow on stage. The Waking Hours is definitely a satisfying show, filled with power punk indie licks and good ole fashioned energy.

by: Aaron Settipane

More on this Artist:  www.thewakinghours.com

The Vacation : Los Feliz Street Fair

Commonly referred to as “L.A.’s best kept secret,” the band The Vacation took to a short set during the 13th Annual Los Feliz Street fair with furious success, showing off the wares their selling, while schooling other local up-and-comers a thing or two about showmanship. Led by singer Ben Tegel, The Vacation presented a spirited and fiery set, replete with sexual innuendo and backed by guitarist and brother Steven’s AC/DC-like riffs and moves blowing off the stage. We’re not talking about the trite punk set full of screaming, body slamming kids with the vocalist caterwauling into the mike; we’re talking a fun, professionally performed set with big-time show prowess packed in a little powerful punch, intoxicating to the audience, forcing you to want to see more! Bassist Eric Suoninen held strong being the straight-man in the group, keeping the grooves grounded while the other two executed an exhibition of music. The Vacation is the little band that cannot be ignored and shouldn’t.

by: Aaron Settipane

More on this Artist:  www.thevacationmusic.com

Purple Planet : Tempest

A late show at Tempest in West Hollywood proved pleasantly pleasing as Purple Planet blew up the spot, featuring the seductive Erinn Williams at lead vocals. Energized by their fusion of electronica beats with electric rock, Purple Planet played a casual yet pleasing show, punctuated by Williams’ unforeseen sarcastic humor and deadpan delivery of unscripted jokes between songs, which made the show even more charming. She was backed by a pairing of creative melodies by guitarist Jay Hood and keyboardist (and master of the airsynth) David Vaughn. Their Garbage-meets-No Doubt-with-a-Stevie Nicks-like-twist sound is a welcome difference in the scene and offers a strong, poppy and melodic contribution. Purple Planet just returned to L.A. after a tour throughout the U.S. southeast, buoyed by the release of their independent self-titled CD and news that their single “Tastes Like Candy” has airplay in over 1/3rd of the U.S. radio markets (a mix of secondary and primary markets). After a brief respite, they are back out on the road for more fun and hyginx on the road. Definitely a show not to miss.

by: Aaron Settipane

Kenzo's : Pallidino's

Kenzos rocked Pallidino's this past Saturday night. Vocalist/guitars, Joe Sears, a high-energy performer, that put the average sized LA crowd to attention. There's no doubt that Joe's approach to his lead guitar stands above the rest, but his Jim Morrison'esq presence was certainly worth noting. Unfortunately, the band didn't rise to the same energy level, leaving Joe doing most of the work. Musically these guys have the beginning of what will definitely be a strong melodic rock band. A little work on dynamics and structure and the Kenzos have something special. Rumor has it that the bands only been together for a month and a half, a great start. Keep an eye out for these guys, I can definitely hear where they're going with it.

by: TLAMS

Blue Eqauls Extinct

A Monday night at any club in Los Angeles can be a crapshoot at best. I caught Blue Equals Extinct, a local 4-piece rock/jam band. The groups sound can best be described as an atmospheric meld between Phish and Coldplay. Unfortunately the band seemed a little less than interested in what they were doing on stage and didn't make me believe in their sound. The bands underlying idea was interesting and for the ambient music seeks, Blue Equals Extinct will be just right. Musicianship was better than average. Rumor has it that they haven't played a show in a long time and their recording is worthy of a listen. If you see the bands name on a marquee, give them a listen!

by: TLAMS

Acoustic Live : Night #7

What could be cooler than watching an artist or band perform their set? How about six different ones playing their sets in one night? Acoustic Live on Sunday, November 2, 2003, kicked off the last exciting round of unplugged performers, before the finals on November 9. First up was Berklee College of Music grad, Curtis Murphy, along with grooving drummer, Jeremy "the kid" Shanok, and Chen Neeman on the bass. This band let the crowd know that music this honest and heartfelt definitely has a future, and that no act is complete… without a trucker hat. Four Side Letter laid down a mellow set with three guitars. There was a small misunderstanding about the maximum number of instruments allowed onstage, but solved it creatively when the drummer, Mike Forrester and Jason Ehrlich (lead guitar) simultaneously used Jason's guitar as a percussion instrument and well, a lead guitar. Artists Judd Duncan dazzled all with a song played on his green color bass and guitar. He rounded up his ear-grabbing set with a nature inspired drum and shout song that had the audience captivated. Jeddrah gave a sparkling performance on the keyboards with a twinkle in her eye, and a newly acquired knowledge of guitar (she learned to play it only a week before that performance). Two Dogg Garage was the leader of the night. Front man Alex Kimmell had the audience at "This song is an anti-ballad," where they proceeded to rock the house all the way to the winner's circle. This Acoustic Live event was the perfect way to spend an evening with a plethora of talented musicians in Los Angeles. As a bonus, showcase artist Chris Pierce performed a few of his I-feel-so-sexy jazz hits.

by: Madeline Wright

More on this Event:  www.acousticlive.net

Gabriel Mann : The Silverlake Sessions

It's easy to not know what to make of Gabriel Mann, but there's no denying that there's something special about his music and his approach. Gabriel's voice is warm and doesn't sound like the last 300 male vocalists that have made it onto the radio, and there's something about it that makes it interesting and keeps your curiosity. Musically there's so much going on, form the musicianship to the songwriting, that it's "almost" too good. The group writes with a playful jam that pushes each song in its own direction, usually with a catchy hook or melody line. Not a huge fan of piano in music, Gabriel sways me, and keeps me interested. The musicianship, overall, was phenomenal. Gabriel Mann is a must see for those who like what might have to be coined as the alternative singer/songwriter rock.

by: Enye

More on this Artist:  www.gabrielmann.com

Uptown Rulers : Westwood Brewing Co.

There's a new bread of the funk styling brewing with the Uptown Rulers, a 4-piece group that's got an edge that borders on the old school but is keeping the mainstream energy alive. For a funk group, the bands keeping it light! They've got drums, bass, guitar and vocals/trombone, but there's no mistaking that they do what they do well with their small ensemble. Writing catchy songs that are just shy of a mainstream sound, the Uptown Rulers will appeal to almost anyone who's looking to have a good time. The bands energy level is high but the approach is relaxed and inviting. And for those that appreciate musicianship, these guys are above the bar. They're busy working in their new drummer and testing out they're special guest rapper "Raw Dawg," but there's not denying that once they smooth out the kinks they'll be putting on some of the best shows in town.

by: Seth S.

More on this Artist:  www.uptownrulers.com

Even Pete : 14 Below

This new and revised 4-piece, soft rock/pop band strips the glitz and goes for the glamour with some early shortcomings but strong potential. The band is back to basics, with vocals, guitar, bass & drums (Formerly of Velvet Bud). The songs are still developing and the catchy hooks aren't quite there yet. The group has a tight rhythm section, solid drums and a strong bassist. Jessica's got a strong voice, but it hasn't quite found its niche in their style of music. In general, the group lacks dynamics. A second guitarist might enhance the band's sound and harmony vocals could really help bring out more fullness. Their rawness may simply be a product of the group being new to this "bare bones" combination. Even Pete is one to keep an eye on. When they bridge the gap they'll be bringing something different to the scene.

by: Seth S.

More on this Artist:  www.evenpete.com

Jamie Green : The Temple Bar

At first glance her long crinkled red hair catches your eye…this raw, natural diva begins her set with a crisp, clear tone. "I Will Call You" is a great opener and really showcases how tight the band is. Jamie's music has sweet, close harmonies and solid arrangements. Within the first two songs it is obvious that she has strong song writing skills. I particularly enjoyed the second song she performed but she never said the name of it, just that it was "new". Check some lyrics…"I'm not gonna change my sheets for this…" She breezes through notes easily and is soulful with an R&B flare. "I'm not gonna Jenny Craig for this… not gonna were my thong for this." Assertive and confident but also very sexy, Jamie's great on stage. "I'm not gonna make-believe." The band communicates to one another and is fluid. No one plays against each other. The sound is well-balanced and complete.

Jamie was a finalist in the John Lennon Songwriting Conest with "Mantra", a track off her latest release, "Truce". You can buy it on her website and find out what shows are coming up next. Jamie is well known in the singer-songwriter circuit in L.A. and is renowned for having an impeccable voice. I would highly recommend her live, full-band show!

by: Jennifer Coplin

More on this Artist:  www.jamiegreenmusic.com

For those of you who missed it, Acoustic Live, thelamusicscene.com's very own "Showcase Series," an event derived from the Annual Battle of the Bands, held yet another successful night of free music! That 1 Guy was invited down from San Francisco to play his "Magic Pipe," a self-made instrument that is difficult at best to describe, but his music is techno/industrial and very interesting. Raining Jane, the local 4-piece all girl band played a great set, they blend harmonies with some great song writing. I have to admit that Gabriel Mann was a highlight, his quirky stage presence and awkward voice remind of Tori Amos and Dave Mathews crossing DNA, but we all know that can't happen. Alexi Murdoch played a completely solo set, his songs are so well written that I kept wondering if he was doing covers! A.I. is a strange act, and something I would recommend any and everyone see. Their version of an acoustic set was as far from acoustic as you could get, but it was some of the most interesting musicianship I've seen in some time. Someone probably locked these four guys in a music store for a weekend, because they've just got too many funky toys and sounds to be considered normal. All in all, this was an amazing night of music, each act was individually incredible for their sound, song writing or presence, which made this night stand out. I'd have to say the Westwood Brewing Company is a little too small for this kind of night, but the floor was carpeted, so I have no complaints.

by:  John Taylor

The Lips : Taix Lounge

No one told The Lips that rock and roll has to be polished in order for it to be valuable, like a nice bowling trophy or a solid gold tie clip (maybe with a nice bowling trophy engraved on it). Someone did however, pass on some very clear musical wisdom to the Los Angeles four-piece: Play catchy, rough rock and roll. Throw an occasional ambiguous, sleazy factor to your shows, not unlike the Stones or Iggy Pop. Rock the mic. Break a few strings. Get pretty girls to take your picture while on stage and act like you hate them for doing it. Have a few drinks. If all else fails, knock the drum kit and/or the drummer over. Repeat as necessary.

by:  Rebecca Hill

Mark Latham : Sherman Oaks Lounge

Mark Latham recently released a very eclectic album "Radio Friendly Superstar" and I have to admit that I didn't quite get it. So I went to see him live at the Sherman Oaks Lounge, and while he played a variety of songs you'll find on his latest release, it was a couple of songs that you won't that caught my attention. As a performer Mark is intense. You can certainly tell that he enjoys being on stage and that he shares that with the audience. He's a confident and a solid guitar player with a broadly influenced sound. But, Mark's sound really comes to life when he's doing the simpler soft rock/folk acoustic styling, which I was told were a newer departure from the last recording. The sound, more like a Match Box 20 ballad or the softer side of the Goo Goo Dolls. So, while the album may rock for moment, seem gospel at times or even take a humors folk/acoustic plug at Eminem, which he performed live, there's a sense of searching through influences looking for a sound that makes more sense live that offers a taste of what Mark may offer next.

by:  TLAMS

Jed, Four Side Letter : Sherman Oaks Lounge

When it comes to the music scene, I don't think I've ever seen a venue pop up as quickly as the Sherman Oaks Lounge, in the San Fernando Valley. A primarily acoustic venue, the Sherman Oaks Lounge has been playing host to a variety of nights, some of which are hosted by talk show host Sheena Metal. This past Saturday night Sheena had Four Side Letter, Jeddrah (from the band Jed) and Pope Jane (to name a few). Four Side Letter's Vocalist/Guitars Ken Straniere and Rhythm Guitarist/Backup Vocalist David Kelley played a short, 30-minute set which is very similar to their release "Harbor." Jeddrah, from the band, played a solo set accompanied by her electric piano. Best put by an audience member, Stacy, Jeddrah's voice is very "passionate," while others made reference to Tori Amos, though Jeddrah's voice and style/genre are quite distant from the Tori "vibe." It's a treat to see Jeddrah perform live. Pope Jane finished up the night, but I have to admit leaving before I had a chance to give a listen. You can check out Four Side Letter, Jed and Pope Jane in the artist/band section.

by:  TLAMS

Dimtribe : The Whisky

Dimtribe is a hard rock band with balls. Unlike other many bands in this genre, Dimtribe has a unique sense of melody that separates them from the pack. And while the band isn’t innovating within their genre, they are creating new cohesive melodies that manage to stay within the framework of the hard rock genre. Structurally the band is on the money, as crunching guitar and hard bass lines wrap their melodies into a tight little package that is instantly appealing. Credit must also be given to their drummer who breaks out some sexy beats that always seem to break hard into the chorus. He has a colorful feel behind the kit and is an undeniable force in keeping the songs moving forward. For a young band, they have already managed to create a exciting stage show. In addition to the three piece band on stage the band’s roadies hang around on stage also and keep the vibe going. As the band rocks out, the roadies dance hard and get quietly inebriated. Instead of being a distraction, the roadies actually add to the vibe of a good time hard rock band. Which is exactly what Dimtribe is. The band is seemingly keen to the audience’s needs and knows how to get them riled up in moshing mood. Dimtribe is a band that will surly be making a name for themselves in Los Angeles. Fans of a little hard rocking and ass kicking will most definitely enjoy what Dimtribe has to offer.

by:  Scot D.

Over the past 8 months the band Krave has gone through some extensive line up changes, both their drummer and their guitarist, but they're hitting the scene again with a vigilance that is marked by a tighter more solid sound and a presence that lights up the stage. Vocalist, Rene Myara has always been the bands "sound," her voice is soft, reminiscent of, dare I see, Gwen Stephani clashing with Tori Amos. But their hard rock sound will prevail where others haven't persisted. Look out for Krave as they get comfortable with the new line up, while working on all new tunes. There are some similarities to their older stuff, a little bit harder hitting, grooving, with a few more hooks… so I heard the other night.

by:  TLAMS

More on this band:  www.krave.net

The Mansions : Space 6507

Space 6507 is a great venue. They have good sound, great lights and lots of room to pack in a crowd. The Mansions were the headlining band, and they caught my attention from reading their posts on this site. As they entered the stage I tried to figure out who the front man was as the entire band was dressed to the nines, pleather pants, black nail polish an all! As the first few minutes of the set ring out I can hear this band has a very distinct sound. I'd like to call it "dark wave power pop". The lead singer really knows how to work the crowd. He interacts and involves the audience but stays just far enough away to maintain that just out of reach cool vibe. With their second song, "No U-Turn" I hear hints of old David Bowie, Marc Almond and even a little KMFDM. The band obviously grooves well together. The music moves you and this is a tight band! There was one song in particular that really caught my attention. "Autopia" was its name. As it begins it sounds like you've just opened a jewelry box and then as the band comes in full force it becomes the song you leave the club humming. There are some nice harmonies with the back up vocalist but all too often I feel like her voice overpowers the lead singer's. During their song "Shine" the audience got riled up and sang the song with the band. They definitely have a dedicated following. Their next song "Hey Girl" or "The Year of Decembers", two different names were given, was the band's ballad. I think they pushed a little too hard vocally but with some softer, more sensitive vocals this could be one to really swoon the ladies. With the last few songs of the set I got a vision of The Mansions opening up for a dance club like Sin-O-Matic or Perversion before they go into full club swing. I think it would be a great way for people to get introduced to the band and their music would appeal to that kind of crowd. To sum it up: The Mansion vibe well together. They enjoy what they're doing and put on a great stage performance. They need a little more attention to the execution of the material. The songwriting however has a lot going for it with great instrumentation, good lyrics but most of all good messages.

by: Jennifer Coplin