At SPM, we do more than write about the scene, we live it. In honor of "Scene Awareness Month" SPM is sponsoring the ultimate scene shindig tonight at the Modified Arts, 407 E. Roosevelt, Phoenix. The top local bands from varying genres will be there to rock students' socks for $3. Last week's spotlight band Not Quite Bernadette will be headlining. Read on to find out who else is playing tonight and why you shouldn't miss them.
Before Braille
Alternative meets Emo
Why they're worth your time: Before Braille is one of the local bands that people have been raving about and yet they are still under appreciated. Their musical style is similar to other Mesa favorite, Jimmy Eat World, but the band also draws comparisons to softer, emotional Foo Fighters songs. They inked with Azure Records in 2003, an independent label working towards becoming the next Saddle Creek (home of The Faint and Cursive). The lyrics are caustic and painful, but vague enough that the words remain relatable. Don't let the emo genre fool you, Before Braille has energy and shows allow for dancing and crowd surfing.
How do you describe your music? "Slam your head into a pile of bricks. If you're in the zone, you'll break through and it won't hurt. If you're not, the music will still soothe the pain eventually," said Dave Jensen, Before Braille vocalist.
Peachcake
Electroclash (techno minus any rap influence)
Why they're worth your time: Can you name one band that rocks incredibly hard and features a member playing the key-tar? If you check out Peachcake, you'll be able to say that not only is the key-tar cooler than you thought, but they may very well become your new favorite band. Peachcake creates upbeat, catchy indie-meets-electro music that manages to keep from becoming repetitive. That is something special to the genre, and allows the music to be palatable to punk rockers and emo kids alike. From the first time you feel the floor at the Modified Arts shake beneath your feet from the crowd jumping during Peachcake's set, you'll know this band deserves your attention.
Who are your favorite local bands? "Honestly, I don't like many local bands," Peachcake vocalist Stefan Pruett admitted. "That doesn't mean I fall short of supporting them, and I think many are good for what they are, but a lot of times, it's just not my thing. It shouldn't matter if you like certain bands. What people should at least know about is everyone is doing what they love, and that is important. If anyone thinks someone is a jerk for saying they don't like their band, then they have a long road to go about. I like Before Braille, Goodbye Tomorrow, I Hate You When You're Pregnant, The Budget Sinatra, Existi, The Necronauts, Asleep In the Sea, Back Ten N Ted, Treasure Mammal, and RightTurnarrow, many more."
Blanche Davidian
Punk-infused glam rock (expect hair and makeup)
Why they're worth your time: Blanche Davidian has gained a reputation for putting on a wild stage show. They are clearly influenced by David Bowie (circa 1972), but you can also pick up on influence by the Damned and Turbonegro.
Their style is complimented by a grand live show -- expect lights and visual projections. Definitely something you are not seeing from other local bands. The band doesn't play many all ages shows, but they're working on it. If you're under 21, catch them while you can.
How do you describe your music? "Acid Punk. Blends hot-rodded Euro-Rawk (Turbonegro, Gluecifer, Motorhead) with Ole English Punk & New Wave (Damned, Sex Pistols, PiL). Add some goth, glam, and psychedelic embellishments and you got the dark and persuasive sounds of Blanche Davidian," the members of Blanche Davidian explained collectively via email.
The Half Empties
Punk rock for the bar
Why they're worth your time: The band characterizes themselves as "a little epic, a little melodic, a lot rockin'" and that's pretty accurate. The Half Empties are a fun rock 'n' roll band who tend to play at places where they can throw back some PBR (Pabst Blue Ribbon) while playing their mildly gritty form of punk rock. They've been around for over four years, and are talked about frequently in local record stores. The Half Empties always brings the rock, so show up and enjoy.
Where is your favorite place to play? "The Rogue," Big Vinny, bassist, said. "The Hunns and One Man Army were probably two of the best shows there, that and when Jesse [Empty, drums] puked on stage."
Jenna's Arrival
Power pop
Why they're worth your time: Jenna's Arrival played their first show at the Phoenix stop of the Vans' Warped Tour in 2003. That's quite a start. Despite the fact that Jenna's has only been around on the scene for a little over a year, the band consists of a former member of Plinko (toured with Blink 182 and Unwritten Law), a former touring member of The Format and members of the pop outfit 17 Four Eyes (who played alongside Something Corporate and Rufio). They've paid their dues and they've got talent. Rumors are circulating that major record labels are scouting this band. Check them out while you can to say you knew them when.
Where is your favorite place to play? "Our favorite places to play would have to be The Modified Arts, and the brand new venue The Complex [2647 West Glendale, Phoenix]," Eric Oppitz, Jenna's Arrival bassist, said. "Both clubs' ultimate goal is to support and promote the music."
Reach the reporter at chelsea.ide@asu.edu.
