Dredg, Spiritfall, Oddman & Insolence

This was a thrash Thursday. The evening started with San Jose newcomers, Dredg. They opened with a precise and clean set, although they lacked in audience interaction, remaining aloof yet musically intense.

Spiritfall, Chico locals, were up next. These guys are definitely climbing the ladder of popularity; they can be viewed on farmclub.com. Fellow locals Oddman took the stage next, and as usual they started out with the stage lights off, building the anticipation level. As soon as the stage lights came up, they ripped into their set, leaving the meek lost in the shadows. This was yet another stunning performance for these local hardcore favorites. They clearly demonstrated their authority by stamping this evening with their trademark sound. The bass was heavy and sensual while the drums carried out a tribal death march of sound. The two guitars complemented each other well, as the guttural growl of the vocals reminded us of where we were tonight, a talent show in hell.

After Oddman, we were ready for anything. We welcomed back San Jose natives Insolence, and as they took over the stage, it was clear we had a crowd favorite. A large mosh pit, left over from Oddman, encompassed the downstairs level of The Brick Works. Here we have diversity — this was a chaotic, yet smooth blend of thrash, rap, and even reggae, all infused into one package of heat and noise. Mech and lead vocalist Mark carried out the vocals. They mock-battled onstage, both physically and vocally, holding a fast paced edge on the music. Guitar, manipulated by Mike, gave Insolence their style, while Paul busted some funky bass lines, providing the audience with some visual stimuli as he jumped and careened about the stage. Jerry deftly kept up with these hard rockers while still maintaining a calm personae, controlled turntable pleasure. Mondo delivered his drum set with intensity and passion. Unfortunately his face was obstructed from view, but he was clearly heard rounding out this stellar performance with tribal drumbeats. If this band had a face, it would be smirking.

All in all this proved to be a hardcore culmination of soulful rockers, smooth talkers and hardcore thrash outfits. I’d see this show again!

- Sarah Kramer

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