Insolence, Oddman & Element of Surprise

"Metal is like today's jazz: you do it for the love." - Alan Reed
Being the lifelong rock fan (of all styles and variations) that I am, I was more than happy to be able to see this show. I came with an already developed partiality to Oddman, and little knowledge of either Insolence or Element of Surprise. I left with a little taste of two new (new to me, that is) musical acts that collaborated with Chico's metal pioneers to put on a rockin' show.
A cozy group of about 20-30 (all under 25 years of age, it seemed) gathered closely and timidly before the stage to welcome Element of Surprise, fresh from the Bay. Presenting sentimental vocals and sharp power chords, this group seemed to have gained influence from the likes of Linkin Park and Papa Roach. Although this sort of trendy rock isn't really my style, I realize that (largely due to radio and MTV) it has gained increasing popularity among youngsters like myself. To anyone who appreciated the aforementioned groups' style, I strongly suggest that you check out this group. Personally, I thought the highlight of their set was the impressive nine-string bass. Every time the bassist played a chord, I thought, "Holy shit! I feel like I'm standing in the middle of a giant vibrator!" It was quite powerful, to say the least.
After a fairly short set change, the many Oddman fans were collectively pleased to see the guys step up to the stage. One thing I love about this group is that they give you what you came for: all music, no bullshit. They don't torture you with a lot of talking, stupid jokes or constant spewing of self-promotions, just music (and awesome music, at that). Without warning, the Chico residents injected the audience with a much-needed dose of loud, fast, skull crushing, head-thumping tunes in the true metal spirit. Scott, Cayle, Matt, Jai and Adam crammed the set with as many songs as possible, including "Rise Up," "Fashion," and "1332."
I truly believe that bands like this are the reason that this music still exists. They do what they do because it is in their spirits; it is what they love. I have enjoyed seeing them play in the past, I loved this show even more, and I hope to see much more of them in the future. Following a 30-45 minute set change, San Jose's Insolence began with a dark, brooding intro.
Billy Rosenthal's repeated cries of "One love, unity and peace," as well as his reference to the band's music as "non-violent protest." Being quite the peace-lover myself, these cries greatly appealed to me and apparently to the rest of the fervent, young crowd. I was definitely surprised when he even referred to the crowd members as "beautiful people" rather than the trite "crazy motherfuckers" that most vocalists prefer. Insolence definitely proved all their worth.
These shows are a positive, healthy outlet for all the kids who attend them. They truly do advocate peaceful protest. (What could be more nonviolent than music?) If someone has something to say and needs a musical outlet to speak for himself or herself or someone to identify with, I definitely suggest that they check out these concerts.
- Karen Light
- Photo by Alyssa Starkey

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