CMJ SATURDAY: TEAM*, WHISKEY BITCHES, THE NUCLEARS + KING GIZZARD & THE LIZARD WIZARD

Waking up early Saturday morning I felt sore and a bit discombobulated as I was out until 4am the night before getting the shit kicked out of me by moshers and crowd-surfers. Despite any of that I made my way to the Knitting Factory for an early afternoon rock show featuring one of my favorite trios, Whiskey Bitches.

Arriving early (it’s a curse really) I caught a sweet and energetic set by TEAM*, who’s Texas brand of Indie Rock really got the small crowd into their set. TEAM* was a real treat and enjoyed their early afternoon, PBR swilling show and took the edge off from the night before.

After waiting all week to catch an electric set by the Whiskey Bitches, they certainly didn’t disappoint with hard hitting and short numbers in the classic punk style I love so much. Led by Madge on the guitar/vocals and with hammering bass lines from Kate Black, percussionist Eli Lopez easily filled the groove with precise and laser like drumming. Their 40 minute set flew by way too quick and will be catching this up-and-coming group again soon. Live video here of them singing about having all their money used up by going to get drunk.

Being that I had to waste some time before our own showcase in the LES I decided to camp out a little longer at the Knit and was glad that I did as The Nuclears put on a sizzling rock set. Highlighted by dueling guitars and two lead singers plus hair flying everywhere, The Nuclears hammered through their classic hard rock tunes with an obvious mission to kick-ass and take names. Watch this video to see what I mean.

After meandering my way to Pianos I decided to hit the downstairs for one of the weeks most exceptional bands; King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard. As soon as I opened the door to the small room I knew I would be a challenge to get close enough for photos but I found my way through the over-capacity venue to the front. Having seen KGATLW once before at Northside festival I knew I was in for a treat with their explosive brand of Australian-Psych-Rock and boy, they brought it! They started off the set with a blistering 12 minute Jam song that had everyone, including me in a frenzy of movement and sound. Immediately following they played this perfect trippy song with a flute and distorted vocals that made me want to lose my shit as seen in this amazing video. If KGATLW hits your town, I beg you to see them as it’s one of the best live shows you will ever see. I reluctantly left the gig after that song for I had a show upstairs to cover but that 20 minutes left a huge impression on me.

Article by: Shayne Hanley