Images: The Adicts, The CG’s, Anti-Vision October 30, 2015 at the House of Blues

As I walked into the House of Blues I realized I hadn’t been to a show like this one in a long time. Not only was it all-ages, but an all-ages punk show in a big venue. Speaking of big venues, I grew up listening to The Adicts and they were one of the bands that really got me into punk rock, but I’d only ever seen them at large festivals. So as big as the HOB is, this would be my most intimate Adicts show.

Starting off the night was Vegas’ own Anti-Vision, and I was happy to see these guys again and on a big stage. They have been one of my favorite local bands since i caught them at Sector 7-G’s CD release show, and although there were very few people in the crowd for their set, they tore the place up like it was a sold-out show. I was happy to see the small crowd looking at their friends as if to say “are you seeing this?” throughout the set.

Next up was The CG’s. Last time I saw them (quite some time ago) they had just recently expanded to a three piece. I noticed at this show that they had picked up a new guitar player, Art Jacobo, but curiously, they were absent a drummer. By the time the third song ended and it was time for me to exit the photo pit, the drummer came running into the venue (and was nearly stopped by security) before hopping on stage to belatedly join the band. Thankfully I was able to dodge some kids starting a pit to run back up and get a few photos. Despite all the mishaps, their set was great.

As I looked around I realized the crowd had at least doubled in size, which meant it was definitely about time for The Adicts. They got off to an unusual start, because while the curtain was still closed, a British kind of house music came on very loudly. The kid behind me was really into it, but I must admit, I was a bit taken back. Then the familiar sound of the Clockwork Orange opening music came on and a member of either the band or the stage crew poked their head out from behind the curtain. The crowd erupted and the curtain opened. Monkey was wrapped up in what looked like a shower curtain cape and as soon as the song started, confetti was in flight. I’ll admit I was so mesmerized by it all up close, I couldn’t tell you what they played first. When I came to during the second song, “Tango” (also one of my favorites) it was a mad house already.

About half way through their set, they played “Horror Show” from one of their newest albums. Monkey came out in a neon orange outfit full of little lights and a clown mask. After a few more songs he had removed most of that outfit to reveal he had painted his upper body gold, and by the time “Viva La Revolution” was played Monkey didn’t even have to sing because the whole crowd had it handled. They finished up their set with “Walk On,” and I really can’t think of a better way to have ended the night.

-Anthony Constantine | https://www.facebook.com/anthonycphotography