Kevin Seconds – at Sandrini’s – Bakersfield, CA

One could describe Bakersfield as HOT on Sunday the 18th, not just because it was one of the hottest days of the year so far, but because of the several events that were being hosted downtown. While many were at The Fox Theatre keepin’ it gangsta with Snoop Dogg and Ice Cube, it was of little to no relevance to the patrons only a block away that were gathered inside of Sandrini’s Bar. Kevin Seconds made Bakersfield one of the last stops of his month long solo acoustic tour. It would be his first time playing in Bakersfield since the 90′s.

Sandrini’s is a small basement bar/restaurant located on Eye Street, which is known for their selection of imported beer and great food. The low lights, brick walls, and mahogany seating set the mood just right for the type of show that was about to be underway. As it drew closer to 8 o’clock, people started arriving, and the small bar started to quickly fill up. First on was Rolling Chassis; this was only their third show together with their new drummer. They played some of their new songs like "Diggin’ Holes", some old Spilt Milk songs, and even made up a silly song about herpes. Sean’s vocals sounded great and the band vibed together really well for their lack of time together on stage.

Next up was one of Bakersfield’s most popular and beloved local bands, The Iron Outlaws. Their music consists of a mixture of rock, country, and Punk. They played a powerful set with Danny on lead guitar and vocals, AJ on the upright bass doing back up vocals, Pete on banjo, and Cesareo on drums. The crowd knew all of their songs and everyone vivaciously sang along with them. After their set, the energy was high and people seemed to be growing more intoxicated as the moments passed.

Next up was Scott Kennedy who drove up from Southern California. Kennedy played a short but beautiful acoustic set, complete with his harmonica. It was his first time playing a show in Bakersfield, and even though he wasn’t well known, people seemed to really enjoy his music.

It was getting late for a Sunday and the crowd was anxious to see Kevin Seconds play. At about 11:15pm, Kevin took the stage and soon everyone’s attention was shifted from their social activities directly towards the stage. Kevin Seconds had the audience captivated. The majority of the people in attendance were 7 Seconds fans. I was curious to see how everyone would react to this very different style of music Kevin was going to play. Many had not heard his solo stuff and a mixed reaction was expected. However, the audience seemed to embrace and respond to his music in a very positive way. There were constant shouts of praise, and all around you could hear people talking about how impressed they were by his performance.

Cesareo Garasa joined Kevin on stage and played drums throughout his set. Kevin played an awesome acoustic version of "True Believers" by The Bouncing Souls, and also included a great song that he wrote with Matt Skiba called "Motherfuckers". As he neared the end of his set, people started yelling out for 7 Seconds songs. Reluctantly, he obliged and busted out an encore of 7 Seconds tunes acoustic style, such as "Walk Together, Rock Together", "If the Kids are United", "99 Red Balloons", and a few others all wrapped up into one song. The crowd got up out of their seats, and started ecstatically singing along with their fists in the air.

It was close to 1 o’clock in the morning, and while many had to be up for work in a few hours, no one seemed to care. Many stuck around even longer hoping for a chance to chat with Kevin. The night was a success and will remain a very memorable moment in the minds of everyone who were fortunate enough to be a part of this experience!

-J. Moncrief-
Big Wheel Staff Photographer

More photos of the show can be seen HERE

 

 

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