NumberOneGun, the Americas & Most Inspirational

At no time in recent memory has a show featuring almost entirely local bands generated as much pre-show excitement and hype as this past Thursday's rock 'n' roll extravaganza at the newly christened Riff Raff. The reasons for this run from the obvious - NumberOneGun is arguably both the best and most dedicated band in the Chico emo / spock / screamo /indie scene right now - to the more subtle - the Riff Raff seems to be the closest thing Chico has had in a while to an all-out musically dedicated rock bar. This being only the second night in its young existence, the Riff Raff nevertheless seemed to ooze with the essence of rock shows past, present and future; the fresh coats of paint belying the scores upon scores of rock shows the walls have absorbed in their years as part of one rock club or another. The scene was completed by the scores of spectators - those of legal age inside, the youths standing sentinel outside the front window - the majority of whom seemed as equally excited as I.
The show began with Fresno's Most Inspirational, making their first appearance in these parts. Initially the band seemed to be mostly inspired by old At The Drive-In records played over and over; the frontman's half-shouted singing and the band's controlled cacophony struck me as rather tepid. But as the band progressed, their sound softened a bit, and I found myself somewhat pleased by their music, which at times could be harmonious and rather soothing. Most Inspirational soon quit the stage in favor of local dynamic duo The Americas. Consisting of Travis Wuerthner on guitar and vocals and the indomitable Casey Deitz on drums, The Americas simultaneously exhibit both awe-inspiring technical prowess and complete disdain for the conventions of rock music. They also had very moderately priced T-shirts.
As NumberOneGun began setting up their gear, Riff Raff seemed to swell with onlookers, both fans of the band and curious parties who were yet unexposed to the gratifying melodicism that is NumberOneGun. Beginning with a new song, doubtless to be included on the band's forthcoming Salvage Records full-length, NumberOneGun exhibited the honest and accessible songcraft that has earned them the respect and adulation of many not only in Chico, but in the outlying world. Songs like "The Starting Line," and "You're Alive," both off the band's Forever EP, with their dense guitar voicings, subtle bass flourishes, melodic vocals and concise drumming, translated excellently in the live setting. Ending with another new cut, the band left those in attendance yelling for "one more."
Though there were still two more bands left, I felt compelled to exit the premises. No disrespect to either Peleo or The Farewell Letter, but the pinnacle of rock show experientialism that was NumberOneGun's set left me with no choice but to hit the streets in a state of child-like giddiness. All said, the night was both a success for Riff Raff, who doubtless gained more than a few loyal attendees (including yours truly) and the local scene in general, who proved that local music can indeed inspire people to come out and enjoy themselves in large numbers.

- Daniel Taylor
- Photos by Matt Beier

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