Geographically, Grand Rapids is conveniently located right in the middle of Detroit and Chicago. The local music scene has long benefited from touring bands making a quick stopover between the two cities. Once in a while the two worlds collide like they did on August 7, 2015 at The Pyramid Scheme in downtown GR. '90s Windy City punk legends 88 Fingers Louie headlined a bill with support from two of the Motor City's finest. Rebel Spies! opened the show with their infectious blend of classic punk and hardcore. I've only recently discovered this band, but I really like what I've heard. Jeff Uberti from Rebel Spies! also plays in Hellmouth with Jay Navarro, for those of you trying to keep track of Detroit's inbred musical family tree. Unfortunately, due to some grown-up obligations, I missed most of their set. Rebel Spies! are definitely a band I hope to catch again soon.
Next up was one of my current favorites, Break Anchor. They opened their set with "First World Problems," the first song on their new LP. They played ten songs from Van Down By the River along with a couple of older singles. As much as I love the new album, I feel like it doesn't have quite the intensity of those early singles. In a live setting, that intensity was more than restored. By contrast, Jay Navarro had an easygoing stage presence as he chatted about Michigan weather and fist fighting at 42. Yelling along to Break Anchor's set was the most cathartic experience I've had in quite some time. If you haven't checked out this band yet, proceed directly to your nearest mom and pop record store and demand Break Anchor.
In many ways, 88 Fingers Louie was the definitive '90s punk band. They played fast, melodic skate-punk for those of us who grew up during the Epifat era. The current version of the band is still led by singer Denis Buckley and guitarist Mr. Precision. The updated rhythm section, however, looks as if they could be the kids of the other two. Mr. Precision still has his flowing locks and funny-shaped guitar, and still looks like he should be playing in a heavy metal band. This was 88FL's first ever show in Grand Rapids, and they seemed genuinely appreciative. All of the bands had so many connections to the city, it almost felt like a local show. Long-time GR favorites Mustard Plug and up-and-comer The Lippies both got shout outs from the stage.
88 Fingers Louie sounded great and really seemed to be enjoying themselves. It's nice when older bands get back together for the right reasons (it sure as hell isn't for the money). They even played a new song. They wrapped up their high energy show with fan favorite "I Hate Myself" from 1995's Behind Bars. For some reason, the show had to be over by midnight (maybe because it was all ages). In true punk rock fashion, the headliner played the shortest set of the night at 35 minutes. It was almost like the good old days.
Break Anchor Setlist:
First World Problems
San Francisco Rain
DTFKWTME
All I Had
I'm Sorry
I Fell Apart
Bang Bang
If You Go, I'll Follow
Beyond Occupy
18 Winters
Gone
Acronyms
West Alexandrine