Omegas "Blasts Of Lunacy" Release Show

Doors opened at 9pm but the show didn't start 'til quarter after 10pm. Waste Management, unfortunately had to drop the show, so Total Trash, Bogus Cause and Kommando played instead. The venue was pretty packed by the time Total Trash grabbed the stage, a strong energy was already starting to build throughout Rancho. TT played there usual type of set, half sloppy, fun, energetic and it seems to work best for them. They opened with "Gregor Samsa" and the pogo-pit ensued. There were new tracks played from the upcoming 7" and split tape, they had some really good stomp parts and there new EP should be promising. Next up, G.O.D.

This is MTM's new band along with bassist of Bad Choice, Jonah (Fucked Up) on drums and Greg "Stuck in The City"on guitar. I heard the instrumental tracks a week before and it was pretty experimental sounding compared to previous bands, I was intrigued how Mike would piece it together with vocals. Needless to say, it was nothing short of what I expected, great. If you're looking for Bad Choice #2, look elsewhere. These guys brought a new flavour, Mike's vocals at times almost reminded me of somewhat youth crew style, but keeping his own flare along with a few barks. G.O.D. played the 4 tracks on their upcoming demo and I can't wait to hear the final product. With guitar dives, hawked loogies, and erupted confusion, the set ended.

Bogus Cause played almost immediately afterward. I had no idea they were playing until that night. Bogus Cause is Spoiler of Omegas/Justice, NYHC, no guff-type-band as frontman. They've played only a few shows before, tonights being the first in 2 years. After curiously awaiting to hear this band for over a year, it ended as fast it came. BC ripped through 3 tracks, one of which was "Blame Yourself" off the upcoming City-Limits Compilation. I really hope these guys put out a demo some time soon, but at least I was lucky enough to see them.

Kommando played and to be honest this band wasn't really my thing. They reminded of Outbreak and Kid Dynamite at times but overall it seemed their songs drowned into one another. Good energy but too many songs for my liking.

One of the biggest events of the night, Mad Men's final set. 10 out of 10. 10 for 10. Its disappointing not knowing for sure whether they'll ever play again but they went out with a bang. Mad Men played all songs from both demos and tracks off the new 7" (being released within weeks). This was the best and 2nd time I've seen MM but heard like minded opinions. The crowd was on fire for the whole set, Mad Men covered once again NY Hoods "Slapped in The Face" and this italian hardcore song I cannot remember. "Suspiria" has to be one of my favourite tracks, the intro is lunatic and really gets the crowd moving. Mad Men ended with "Square Glasses" and just like that, the Men were no more.

The Joy Boys played after a long night of anticipation. They were in usual attire, with joggers and Davy Crockett hats, and didn't come to fuck about. Omegas are on top in the current state of hardcore and unlike many bands, draw crowds from all over. With a few jabs at TO and Wrestlemania references, the Omegas played tracks from Sonic Order, Blasts of Lunacy and the demo. The set reached and surpassed all expectations. Its definite why their one of the current greatest live bands. I'm typically weary when bands put out LPs because it can be a bunch of filler tracks and better off a 7". Blast of Lunancy ,will more than likely achieve best LP of 2011 . Grab it off Painkiller Records or the band when they play your town.

After the show I went next door to Massimo's Pizza and Pasta and grabbed a slice of cheese pizza, this place is my new favourite pizza joint. The slices are $3.50, hot, fresh and topped with herb and garlic olive oil. Undeniably the best way to end a great night.