All these bands booked these shows specifically for me. Tons of great stuff this week, and a lot of it is bands that I have been dying to see. Check it out. You might die too.
Got a show coming up? New single? Simply want someone to talk music? Hit me up at griffin@rvamag.com.
Gusher, Flora and the Fauna, The Glares
SunDAY JUNE 28th at The Camel
This month’s staff pick at the Camel is absolutely loaded. Gusher is headlining; these cats are packed to the gills with energy and charisma. They boast a strong garage/rock’n’roll/egg punk sound and put on some of the most captivating shows around, with the singer’s unpredictable and mesmerizing performances. This is a band that I guarantee will make you move. They balance shows perfectly between party and riot and always leave you wanting more.
Let’s get a little bit poppier with Flora and the Fauna. This group’s debut album, which released late last year, expanded their sonic footprint, with hints of dance music, emo, and even jazz becoming more apparent. The whole group has a talent for songwriting, with each tune feeling so lively and breathing.
Last up we have The Glares. This young duo absolutely blew me away when I first heard “It’s All True,” which I think is easily one of the best songs this city has ever produced. They are focused on a whimsical and charming indie/garage rock sound that feels just as comfortable in a backyard as on a headlining stage.
Dark Thoughts, Gnostics, Service Weapon, Subversas
Friday June 26th at Banditos
One of my all-time favorite Philly bands is at Banditos this week. Dark Thoughts are punks, plain and simple. The group definitely draws from ’50s and ’60s rock’n’roll, and there is definitely a healthy amount of Ramones inspiration. Their songs are utterly stripped back, which lets pure speed, sweat, and passion push through. I think the Diablo Room is going to be quite hot with these guys on.
The locals are starting things off with Gnostics. As you might guess by their name, this group is moody and heavy. They are like if a hardcore band was a post-punk band. I will not elaborate. If you are looking to get in some serious hardcore dancing, this lot will provide.
Service Weapon is one of those mythical hardcore bands that you can never really track down. The group certainly has a strong following and a loyal fanbase. Past that, it seems you have to know a guy who knows a guy to get more info.
Last up we have Subversas, who self-describe as both anarcho and peace punks. They are keeping the sound of early hardcore alive (think Minor Threat, Teen Idols, early Bad Brains). I think they have a really solid sound, and it scratches an itch that is hard to find in punk music right now.
NEW RVA TUNES
‘Money’ by Gaffer
Gaffer is back with another single and they are not stopping the hits here. The group released “Jimmy Winters” back in April which got a great reaction and now are onto “Money,” their first release with Ephyra records. The group is showing off their versatility as song writers with layered vocals and a more sarcastic and cynical approach to some vocals. Sonically they are still hitting the target for balancing softer moments with big swells and heavy crashes. They already have more than enough to prove themselves in the emo scene, but I think we are going to see Gaffer on bigger and bigger stages as time goes by.
Main photo of Gusher by CJ Payne
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