Lee Bains III and the Glory Fires - Wanted Man -- DC9 - Jul 21 2014

Wanted Man - This local trio had a guest guitarist tonight, a certain Anthony Pirog who is quite brilliant and prolific in just about anything he does. Being that one member of Wanted Man also has the name Pirog, it all makes perfect sense. And what would have been a fun crazy psycho-blues rock show with just three, became even louder and wilder with four. The rhythm section pummeled away with both guitarists blazing away with thick rhythms and dueling solos. Somehow the hearty vocals made it through the forest of fuzzed out barre chords. This was well delivered rock and roll music pushed beyond the barriers that the large crowd totally dug tonight. A solid opening set, perfectly leading into the headliners.

Lee Bains III and the Glory Fires - This quickly rising quartet takes the opening band's sound and pushes it even further into the stratosphere with even more punk pace, crazy guitar moves, and wilder vocal work. Yet they have hearty songs, many of which would sound just fine unplugged. But I'm happier that they are electric tonight with loads of energy as they join the crowd on the floor in addition to working off of each other on stage. They have ballads, although some move into blistering rock before you have a chance to catch your breath. They pile on the songs Ramones style before taking a short break to engage in a bit of stage patter. The 42 minute set was dense, action packed, and just right for waking up every body part of mine. They are touring just their second record, so I don't see this Alabama band's energy slipping away anytime soon. And that is a good thing, as I need bands like this to keep my energy up. You don't stay complacent with the Glory Fires, it just isn't done.

Quote of the Night... More classic musician on musician insults and barbs, as the series continues with...

15. Elvis Costello on Morrissey
“Morrissey writes wonderful song titles, but sadly he often forgets to write the song.”