Photo by Joe Maier
They say that punk is for the kids and they aren’t kidding. Even an older punk band, like Wisconsin to California transplants Naked Aggression, can still bring the bitter youth out in droves. Of course, it certainly helps when dealing with veteran DIY promoters like Will Anderson, founder of Fifthwheel Presents, who, despite living in a city that pushes for restrictive bar shows, is constantly fighting to make shows all ages, like the ones at The Underground, located in the basement of Mesa’s Nile Theater. And with a band like Naked Aggression, their raw energy still shoves punks of all ages into a frenzy.
Photo by Garyn Klasek
Despite having missed the opening act, new local punk band Condition of Existence performed a darker droning set. They pulled this off like clockwork, working very well with their disorderly, grungy edge. This could definitely be perceived through guitarist Baylynn Wednesday’s handiwork. The band even closed out their performance with their take on Nirvana’s “About a Girl”. It will be interesting to see what direction Condition of Existence takes as they develop their sound in the future.
Photo by Joe Maier
Following this was Phoenix party punks Sad Kid. This project goes to show that it doesn’t have to take very long before a band evolves in tonality. Perhaps it’s exactly this progression that has led this band onto some of the best shows in town and on the road. Rhythm guitarist and vocalist Rick Hill balances between keepin’ it poppy and thrashing out. While he certainly proves his capabilities, Hill also expresses urgency with his distinct voice. Keeping up right alongside him is bassist Kyle King. Definitely displaying his nobility, King humbly lays down his talent. Drummer James Bohan really reveals his ability to adapt when needed. Bohan bounces beautifully from creating dance rhythms to full blown ragin’ out. Slyly blaring through to bump the party is trumpet player and lead guitarist Jeremey Scalf. When he isn’t tooting his own horn, Scalf manages to rock out some sweet melodies on guitar. Sad Kid not only embodies the fun spirit of punk but also illustrate the desire for growth on their own terms, resulting in the pleasure of partiers everywhere.
Photo by Joe Maier
Up next was Mesa’s old-school hardcore thrash punks Krovak. In spite of not having followed much hardcore these days, this trio stands out as one helluva dope crew of punkers. Guitarist Mike Germs lays down some harsh melodies. While also dropping vocals, Germs plays some crazy talented guitar somewhere between bluesy and fierce. Even Jairo kills it on drums, showing off his intense skills while slammin’ down some maddening beats. On top of it all, bassist Leigh Dekay keeps it poppy and menacing. Though he puts his all into screaming bloody hell, Dekay doesn’t let it phase him on bass. Towards the end of their set, they pumped out a great rendition of Minor Threat’s “Bottled Violence”. It’s really no surprise, in the end, that Krovak is getting out there and it’s certainly expected that we will only continue to hear more greatness from them down the road.
Photo by Joe Maier
Fantastically closing out the show was punk rockers Naked Aggression. Even though shit got a little crazy last time they rolled through, the turnout this time around was magnificent and frenzied. Not only did they bust out new material but they raged out classics like “Religious Lies”, “Hardcore Guy”, “Smash the State” and “Killing Floor” to a perpetual mosh pit, raised fists and screamed back lyrics. Frontwoman and mainstay over the decades Kirsten Patches seemed to orchestrate much of that energy. Even after maintaining the band for over 25 years, Patches vocals and lyrics remain marvelous. Keeping the pace excellently was Aaron Austin on drums. Not only does he speed through these songs like nobody’s business but Austin exhibits extraordinary savvy. Bassist Meghan Mattox astoundingly stays right on his heels. While she pounds out one hella great bassline, Mattox keeps it fun and menacing. Mind blowing on guitar is Craig Cano. One moment, he shreds like a goddamned champ and the next, Cano brings his A game, conveying some killer melodies and solos. All in all, Naked Aggression seems to have developed into a breathtaking niche. It goes to show that the valley can still pull off incredible punk shows.
~ Garyn Klasek
