HANK & CUPCAKES THROW A RECORD RELEASE PARTY WITH MOTHER FEATHER + CRUSHED OUT

Celebrating the release of their second album, Cash 4 Gold, Hank & Cupcakes played Rough Trade with a set that left me feeling speechless. It was an explosive night where the females pumped up the excitement and had the crowd mesmerized.

Crushed Out with Franklin Hoier on vocals and Moselle Spiller on drums started out the night. Spiller attracted attention with her drum playing and dancing style that was reminiscent of a 60’s go-go dancer. While the twosome had a slightly more subdued stage presence compared to the following acts, their bluesy surfer rock sound was the perfect introduction to the night to come. Mother Feather blew my mind and put on one of the most entertaining sets I have ever seen. It is impossible not to be captivated by Ann Courtney and Elizabeth Carena’s performance. The girls choreographed moves, barely there outfits and flashy makeup paired with the high voltage rock music had me smiling most of the set.

I could feel the excitement building as Cupcakes drum set was being assembled. The drum kit was surrounded by mics and seemed to have this large presence that dominated the stage. Then Hanks massive pedal boards were pointed out to me, hiding on the floor. I could tell something incredible was about to happen but I was not prepared at all for when they finally took the stage. I was immediately entranced with the first song, but it was their song “Romeo” from their new album Cash 4 Gold, that caused me to become completely enamored with this band. Together onstage the married couple have chemistry. Cupcakes often came out from behind her drums to take dance breaks and steal a few kisses from Hank. I was in awe of her onstage charm. She dances and whales on the drums standing up with such intensity. She sings with excellent range and never once sounded out of breath. It was an incredible sight to see.

The power from that show stayed with me for a while. The energy that radiates from the stage and the electricity you feel from Cupcakes performance on the drums is something that can not be captured in a recording. This is a band that must be seen live in order to fully appreciate the beauty of their music.

Article by: Chrissy Lush

Photos by: Shayne Hanley