Subhumans – Total Chaos – Naked Agression – and Mundo Muerto – at The Vex – Los Angeles, CA

Another really big show at the Vex with some really good old and new bands. This show was put together by "Poor Kids Radio" who put out alot of really good shows in the LA and OC area. We got there early because I knew this was gonna be a very packed crowd.

When we arrived, we got to see the Subhumans sound check. They did a song titled "Susan" which featured a keyboard player. Started out mellow and then quickly turned into a subhuman classic. Couldn't wait to see them when they started their set. But first up was "Mundo Muerto" out of the OC (and some members from Portland). High energy Discharge type Punk. Gus, the singer/frontman, is so intense, you can see the rage and energy when he performs. The other band members played a well tight set. A nice variety (not your usual Hardcore band) of style and a band well worth checking out.

Next up was "Naked Aggression". These guys and gals have been around awhile and have improved with age. Two solid guitar players in this line-up. Every time I see Naked Aggression half the crowd seems to know the lyric's as they sing along with Kirsten. This band always seems to get the crowd going and in the mood. A very positive/pro human being Punk band. Kirsten is one of the most outspoken/important figures in the LA punk scene today. The band played all their hits and seemed to be having a great time doing so. An outstanding performance as usual.

"Total Chaos" played next for this very packed Vex crowd. Angry UK sounding early 80's blitz-Punk music with a touch of 80's glam thrown in. They really got the crowd going and played a nice tight set. The crowd seemed to be getting more and more anxious as Total Chaos performed their set.

After a bit of a wait and EVERYONE trying to go up front of the stage, the Subhumans finally took the stage to a loud roar of screaming kids. Its been a very long time since I heard that loud of a response for a band about to play their set (last time I remember it was at a Ramones show in the late 70's).

They opened with "All Gone Dead" and the crowd went ape shit. They looked and sounded really good...even better than when I seen them at the Olympic in the 80's. I was told this was the original line-up. It must have been as they went through their set perfectly without a mistake.

The power and the energy was still in the music. Pretty hard to do for a band almost 35 years old. The crowd went wild and did not let up as the band played songs like: Rats/Big City/Peroxide/Mickey Mouse is Dead/Subvert City/and No. They left the stage and came back to play "Susan" which they very rarely play.

Hadn't seen this type of crowd in a very very long time. Reminded me alot of the early 80's shows. Most likely the best show of the year...so far.

             More photos of the show can be seen HERE

-Mike Vallejo-
Big Wheel Contributor

 

 

 

 

Go HERE to see all the latest show reviews

 

Send your comments to the editor HERE