Images: Be Like Max, The Holophonics, Day Labor, Noise Complaint, The CG’s July 1, 2016 at 11th Street Records

Be Like Max kicked off their latest U.S. trek with a hometown show at 11th Street Records earlier this month, making this hybrid record shop/recording studio/venue host to an insanely strong lineup of ska.

I always really love seeing The CG’s play because they bring so much fun to each of their songs, and the crowd is never shy – skanking along to every word. Greg is a really cool vocalist, always doing something unexpected to put a smile on the crowd’s faces. The band plays ska/punk in a way no one else seems to be doing it and I hope to see them go far.

Next up was the first touring band of the show – Noise Complaint. These southern Californians elicited much skanking from early on in their set. The band was a bit on the poppy side, which I liked, and the crowd seemed to agree, bobbing their heads to the music.

Day Labor was next, and they certainly got my attention with a cover of  Streetlight Manifesto’s “We Will Fall Together” which was fitting, because when I asked my friend Luis to describe them before their set, he said “they’re like a Californian version of Streetlight!”

I couldn’t wait to see The Holophonics because I missed the time they played Vegas and ended up hearing great things about them. The ska/punk band is proudly from Texas, and even sang the Texas state song. The band was a blast to watch live, and the crowd loved it. I really hope they come back again soon.

Saying our farewells to Be Like Max for their third full U.S. tour made for a sweaty and amazing evening. They added a few more people to their lineup and it’s pretty cool. Joining them was “Matt Snachez” former A-OKS (R.I.P) on trombone and I think his name was Dave on trumpet (sorry “maybe Dave!”)!

If you’ve read any of my other reviews, you probably know that this is my favorite band. But, seriously…this is my favorite band. Having gone to every show they’ve played for the last three or so years, I do ask myself why I’m not tired of seeing this band at least once a month. But I know why. It’s because of the vibe all the members bring, and being a part of the crowd singing back makes you feel at home with people who are there to have a good time or escape their lives for a little. At least that’s what the band does for me! If you don’t know Be Like Max, you need to put them on your list to see. You won’t regret it!

-Margaret Schmitt | http://margaretschmitt.wix.com/margaretschmitt