First, Last, and Favorite is our column where we get to know an artist a little better through their life as a listener. They pick a First big record, the Last thing they’ve been into, and an all time Favorite to share a few thoughts on. We’re happy to have John from Seattle pop-punk torch-bearers Dead Bars this edition.
Dead Bars, if you’re not familiar, have been kicking around Seattle for a good couple years now and their recently released the Regulars LP follows one previous full-length (Dream Gig) and a slew of singles and splits. They deal in a fuzzed-out high-energy sing along ready punk rock heavy on hooks. It’s a slight twist on a classic formula; big choruses, buzzy guitar, and a real-life straight to the gut simplicity. Regulars is out now, and catch them live this coming Monday June 24th at Belltown Yacht Club with Worriers, Cumulus, and Dusty. (8:30pm |$10adv $12dos | 21+)
From a natural pre-teen cassette tape infatuation to sharing a stage with your heroes, here are John’s picks in his own words:
First
Green Day Dookie
In 1994, I was 7 years old and my parents both worked so for about an hour every afternoon I was in an after school program. I was in 2nd grade, and one of the 'older' kids in 5th grade showed me the song 'Basket Case' by Green Day on his Walkman cassette player. It was the greatest song I had ever heard in my life up until that point, and it made me feel a certain feeling that I'd never felt before. Not long after that I went to the store with my mom, and asked her if I could get the Green Day tape. I think it was 4 dollars. My mom, was excited that I was interested in something new so she got it for me. I went home and blasted it on my little boombox, and it only took a little while before she read the lyrics and decided that 'Dookie' was not appropriate for a 7 year old. I didn't even know the term 'Punk Rock', but I don't know if I would be here doing what I'm doing if it wasn't for Green Day.
Last
Ramona Deals, Deals, Deals
This album literally came out yesterday, which just so happened to be my birthday too, and it's excellent. Ramona got their start in Seattle, and then relocated to Philadelphia. We've toured all over the country together, and I'm so happy that their first album is finally out. Favorite track right now is "Panama by Van Halen." Go get it!
Favorite
Bouncing Souls How I Spent My Summer Vacation
It's just a perfect album by one of my favorite bands. It's got everything. Great songs, lot's of energy, and a ton of fun. Dead Bars was lucky enough to play the Bouncing Souls' 30th Anniversary show in their hometown in New Jersey earlier this year. Dreams come true.