Tom Cheshire decamped to NYC a while back but returned for a birthday bash, joined by Atlanta’s version of Norm from Cheers, Eric Lee. Though I enjoy both these characters, it was the bands that had me chomping at the bit to get to the Star Bar.
First up, Bully.
Unless I’m mistaken, Joel hasn’t put together new content for this band in quite a while, but that’s fine since they only play a few times a year. A lot of angry stuff, but an AM Gold tune brought in a more cheerful tone.
Blake Rainey and his Demons followed. Sometimes Blake puts on an energetic show and I dig it. Tonight wasn’t that set. I got a bit impatient toward the end, ready to thrash around to something that grabs me, but there were plenty of people in the crowd that enjoyed the Demons.
Selfishly, I wish Tom Cheshire was still in town regardless of his personal mental, physical and financial well being just so we could enjoy his presence on the local scene, and catch All Night Drug Prowling Wolves on a regular basis.
Our local version of the Hold Steady, songs about mistakes, desperation, love and loss. The things this music does to people, both on stage and in the crowd…
The Forty-Fives have changed lineups a few times over the years but this particular rhythm section did a fantastic job.
Which is good because Brian and Adam were pouring it on up front.
I didn’t have the gusto to stick around for Zoners, even though I’d skipped a band or three at the beginning of the night (what is this, Bubbapalooza?) If only Eric and Tom had more birthdays this year…
