Baby’s All Right has hosted some fantastic bills this year and Wednesday night was no different. The killer line-up was comprised of a perfect sampling of Brooklyn bands: Honduras, Stuyedeyed, Navy Gangs, and Retail. These acts have been circuiting the local music scene for quite a while and they packed Baby’s with a fantastic crowd of supportive friends and other local musicians (I caught some familiar faces: Acid Dad, Winstons, Psychic Selves, etc). The venue was warm and intimate; it felt more like a house party where everyone knew each other. Proceeds from the night went to Planned Parenthood which made the night feel even better since it was all for a good cause. And for the cherry-on-top, they had the Sunflower Bean kids DJing throughout the night, accompanying one of the last great shows of 2016.
First to take the stage was the hardcore/punk band Retail. Their frontman, Austin Jackson, brought out Smirnoff Ice for the whole band and then proceeded to ice himself right before the set – I knew right then that it was going to be a doozy. They sound like a punch in the gut, but in a good way. The room erupted with moshing as they played through and Jackson’s stage presence was intense as he smashed bottles and showered the crowd with Smirnoff, commanding the whole room.
Retail
Retail
Retail
Retail
Retail
Retail
Next up was the grungy rock quartet Navy Gangs. Originally from Omaha, they’ve now settled in as a NYC staple. I’ve seen their name on many bills this year and am glad I finally had a chance to check them out. Although they were more subdued and stoic in their presence they rocked just as hard with that 90’s grittiness that had Baby’s feeling like a basement party.
Navy Gangs
Navy Gangs
Navy Gangs
Navy Gangs
Navy Gangs
Navy Gangs
For Stuyedeyed, this was a special last show of the year since it was also the day they released their new single “Mr. Policeman.” This psych/rock quartet is comprised of Nelson, Andrea, Humberto, and Luis, and they are tearing up the scene right now. Oh My Rockness just named them #4 in NYC’s Hardest Working Bands of 2016 with 32 (!) listed shows. The sounds that they are creating are exciting and refreshing; it awakens something inside of you. They are focused and aware of the happenings in the world, which is apparent in their music. The set was tight and intense, ending with Nelson crowd surfing across the room as if in a dream. 2017 will be bringing about a lot of exciting things for this crew, including an EP slated to be released 3/10.
Stuyedeyed
Stuyedeyed
Stuyedeyed
Stuyedeyed
Stuyedeyed
Stuyedeyed
Stuyedeyed
Stuyedeyed
Stuyedeyed
Stuyedeyed
Stuyedeyed
Stuyedeyed
Honduras closed out the show with intensity and gusto; a grand finale for a perfect night of music. It was my first time seeing them and they did not disappoint. Made up of Pat Phillips leading the way with vocals and guitar, Tyson Moore on guitar, Josh Wehle on drums, and Paul Lizarraga on the bass groove, this hazy-garage band transcends. Fans, friends, fellow musicians, all packed close to the stage and sang along to each song. There was dancing, moshing, and crowd-surfing galore, with everyone smiling and vibing together. Based on the crowd that they attracted it is safe to say that they are great guys – there was so much love in the room – and that fiery passion remained in our bones as we all piled out into the cold afterwards.
Honduras
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Honduras
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Honduras
Although it was over way too quickly, there will be plenty of chances to catch these acts next year. Keep these kids on your radars.
Article: Liz Maney
