Images: ††† (Crosses), JMSN March 28, 2014 at Hard Rock Live

Chino Moreno (Deftones/Palms/Team Sleep) is out on tour with his side project ††† (Crosses), and being a new fan of their electronic rock sound, I couldn’t miss their March 28 show at Hard Rock Live.

The night began with lone support act, JMSN (pronounced Jameson). Ponchoed Michigan native Christian Berishaj and his 2 touring musician mates got the night started on a good note. Performing songs from his self-produced record, †Priscilla†, JMSN kept the crowd’s attention with a very chill R&B sound that reminded me of The Weeknd. The live drums and bass provided by the touring musicians was a nice touch and brought the tracks alive. My favorites from the set included hits “Alone” and “Jameson.”

Crosses consists of guitarist/keyboardist Shaun Lopez (of the band Far), bassist Chuck Doom and vocalist Chino Moreno. It’s easy to forget about the other members considering Moreno has several successful projects to his credit, most notably as vocalist for the Deftones. But musically, the band relies heavily on the eerie guitar, bass, and programming provided by Lopez and Doom. When it was time for them to take the stage, the house lights went down and three large crosses behind the drum riser illuminated the room. The group opened with “†hholyghs†” and a wide-grinned Chino greeted the crowd while heads bobbed and mouths sang along. Continuing along, with “†his is a †rick,” “bi†ches brew,” and “fron†iers,” Moreno’s continued grin was that of a true performer that loves every second of what he does. The main set was wrapped up with their latest music video single “†he epilogue” which continued on into “†rophy” and “op†ion.” Chanting fans were treated to a two-song encore which included a cover of Q Lazzarus’ “Goodbye Horses.”

Definitely check these guys out if you’re going to Coachella – it was one of the best performances I’ve seen this year.

–Tylor Thuirer | https://www.flickr.com/photos/thuirermedia/