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Aug 11, 2008My Favorite Band from Chicago?
 There is an ongoing debate in my head. Which do I like more, bands that never quite made it, or bands that have sold out? This is never more evident than when I discuss my favorite bands from Chicago. On one hand, we have Billy and Co. And on the other hand, we have Smoking Popes. Everyone knows the Pumpkins but, judging from the crowd Sunday night, still not everyone knows the Popes. According to Twisted Wife, this is a travesty. And I whole-heartedly agree.Smoking Popes: Record Bar 8/10/08 This review was going to be extremely short. It was going to say, "They rocked... and you missed it." How do I know you weren't there? Because I got everyone's name and we're all starting a Facebook group. Granted, Record Bar is not a big place, but I've seen more people there... to see a Journey cover band (no offense, JD). And all I can ask myself is "why?" I've never met anyone who doesn't like Smoking Popes. So, putting aside the lack of support for this amazing band, I have to to review the show. It opened with Koufax. A solid band from Lawrence, KS. They have come a long way since the first time I heard them and I have to say they are probably the most impressive opening band I've heard this year. Of course, I was eating a very tasty Record Bar burger as they played their set, which helps them immensely. I was sitting right in front, so they had to notice they were my dinner music. I literally could have handed them a french fry, and yet they rocked the dinner crowd. One thing Koufax did well was cover for the headliner who seemed to be running a bit late. As Koufax played their final song, Smoking Popes were loading in their gear. It was nice being in a small club and seeing this not only play out but be pointed out by Robert Suchan. of course, these were professional bands with years of experience, right? I wasn't going to be waiting 45 minutes while the opener got their ass offstage and the headliner set up and sound checked, was I? Hell no! Smoking Popes jumped onstage, threw their drums and amps together and started playing hit after hit after new song after hit. It was inspiring. It's been a very long time since I've seen a band walk into a bar and start into their set within 20 minutes, ala Blues Brothers at Bob's Country Bunker. But Sunday night Smoking Popes showed everyone in the crowd of 40-ish how rock music is played. It was easily one of Kansas City's best shows this year. That's right, I said it. This show rivaled The Raconteurs at the Uptown. Sure, Tim Finn won't agree. But then again, I don't remember seeing Tim in the audience. So, long story short... they rocked and you missed it. 
posted by Jim at 11:06 PM
2 Comments: Monique said...
I thought that was you on Sunday night but I didn't want to interrupt date night with the wife! You'd better add me to your facebook group. Jim said...
I think I need glasses. You are the second person who has said they saw me at the show. That's really bad considering the size of the crowd. |
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