Images: The Last Gang, Oceanside Sound System, Rayner and more April 30, 2016 at The Bunkhouse Saloon (Punk Rock BBQ)

The continual downpour that encapsulated Las Vegas during the same weekend as Viva Ska Radio’s Punk Rock BBQ put the BBQ aspect of this punk rock extravaganza on the backburner.  As a result, the original two stage formula was windled down to just the Bunkhouse indoor stage.  My growing concern changed from staying dry, to pinpointing just how late this ten band bill would be running ‘till.  While my concerns were valid, I completely ditched them as the night progressed and the amount of fun I was having kept exponentially growing.

Reviewing a stacked ten band bill is a daunting endeavour.  So I compiled an assortment of the night’s highlights.  They are in no particular order, and each band is undoubtedly worth checking out for yourself.

Joni’s Agenda was the first band of the night.  I arrived to The Bunkhouse as they were initiating their soundcheck.  Just by the random beats and patterns that drummer, Joe Mascolino-Perv, was showcasing at soundcheck, I instantly knew where I’d be focusing my attention during their set.  As frontwoman, Joni Burnett, and the rest of the band (guitarists Greg Carson, bassist Antonio Mojica, saxophonist Dale Benninger) kicked things into gear, every song slowly captured my interest.  By the middle of their set I was totally on board.  My initial instincts were deemed correct as my focus shifted to the rhythm section composed of the aforementioned, Joe Mascolino-Perv, and bassist Antonio Mojica.  The two locked on to a killer groove the entire set, which was matched by the band.  Mascolino-Perv took the night’s award for ‘Best Drum Face’ with his impressive array of noteworthy faces that match the equally noteworthy calculated intensity with which he played the drums.

Radio Silence won me over by the first song.  Think Fugazi meets Rage Against the Machine (sans the rapping).  Former Boba Fett Youth guitarist Nathan Robards is armed with a shockingly impressive punk rock howl that perfectly situates itself between the rippling drumming of Victor Moya (also of Life’s Torment). I was swayed by the epically building bridges of the songs, which include stunning solos via Robards and second guitarist Brandon Sledge, and the swift and intelligent tempo changes facilitated by Moya and bassist Hunter Smith.  I anticipate I’ll be catching more of these guys around town.

Oceanside Sound System visited Las Vegas last November on the lineup for Viva Ska Vegas, at Vinyl inside the Hard Rock.  While I was yet to seen them live before this, I had heard nothing but good things from peers who had already experienced their furiously entertaining set.  Admittedly, ska has really never been my cup of tea, but when done correctly I can appreciate how truly fun the genre is, and O.S.S. has got it correct.  They were the first band of the night to get the audience near the stage and away from the bar, and kept the attention of a loyal crowd.  It’s nice to see a ska band with a sax player who can actually shred on sax, something Joshua Donahue was able to do.  These guys are well known around SoCal and it’s nice to see that Vegas has been very receptive to their ska punk sound.

Punks in Vegas photographer, Anthony Constantine, described Orange County’s The Last Gang as “The Distillers, but better,” a bold statement I wholeheartedly support.  This three piece composed of vocalist/guitarist Breena Red, bassist Sean Viele, and drummer Robby Waterland were my favorite band of the night, not that anyone’s picking favorite.  Besides the catchy punk rock tunes they belted out, I knew I was in for a treat when I noticed their drummer with an O.G. Rancid t-shirt.  Anyone who takes that much care of such a classic t-shirt sure has a high regard for punk rock.  The Distiller vibe is there, but their music offers so much more, and is accompanied by a stellar live show.

Rayner have been on a steady incline since releasing the debut album.  Landing opening spots with nationally touring bands, and punk legends, they seem more than ready to slay during their Punk Rock Bowling performance this year.  Rayner are also no strangers to sometimes letting alcohol influence the night’s events, but I can safely say that was not the case this night.  While the drinks were flowing, they pulled off one of their best performances yet.  Rhythm guitarist, Rory Child, switched from bass to guitar for this band, and now is a bona fide guitar player, running around with the rest of the group.  Singing along to “Stairset” will never stop being fun.

-Alan Madrigal

Photos by Anthony Constantine | https://www.facebook.com/anthonycphotography