Renegade Issue 27

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Band Babe, Kendra Steel here, to tell you about a wonder I have come upon in my own hometown of Seattle,
Washington!
Some might say that a lot of crazy shit goes on in this city, and they would be more than accurate. Late night
Seattle is not something to take lightly. From bars to local music, it’s a plethora of culture, and much more. They
might even say it’s a preferred starting point if you want to open your eyes up to new scenes.
My venture started at the local bar, 88 Keys downtown where I finally saw a band crush of mine, Under Sin. And
I’m here to verify that yes, everything you have heard about this band is true; they’re nuts, they like to party, and
they are the next big thing.
Not one person in the bar stood still after Under Sin took the stage. They managed to create a large focal point
for the entire audience, something that the bouncers, I am sure, appreciated. Anyone drunk, sober, or high knew
that it was going to be a good show when the dancers got on stage. That’s right, this band was, and is, gearing for
the top, taking any sexual measures to make sure they have everyone’s attention. Unbeknownst to us, this would
also include a shirtless singer after the first song...but I will be the last to complain.
That’s right, even Band Babes are not immune to lusting over shirtless, guitar frontmen. Especially when there is
a strategically placed Godsmack tattoo located on their navel.
With well-choreographed dancers at their feet, (literally), the band paralyzed us with their strength of live music.
It was refreshing to hear a group that could play as well live, as they could recording. This band was cutting the
bullshit.
With a sound that mixes Tool and Alice in Chains, by which are two bands I don’t throw around lightly, these guys
are clearly onto something. Crisp vocals, a hard, steady bass to follow, and drumming that was far beyond basic...
you could almost guess this show was meant for an arena.
It’s not easy overlooking a band whose sound makes it feel like grunge has risen from the grave to dominate once
again. With that being said, you need to have a lineup of guys who know what they’re doing in order to make that
happen.
No worries, my fellow readers, the original drummer of Nirvana, Aaron Burckhard, has taken on this new role with
an intense amount of energy, and warping time as if it were 1986 again. He has made it apparent that drumming
is not something he plans to give up without a fight. Everyone that was at 88 Keys that night saw this.
No short-stock members could ride along with this giant though, which is why the other two badasses of the band
are none other than Steven James, (vocals/lead guitar) and Tom Simpkins (bass guitar).
The trio alone is causing so much ruckus, Robert Lang Studios has taken them under their wings where they are
finalizing a few touches to create their first album. Yes, even Robert Lang Studios has decided that they are rock -
ing hard enough to be on top. Chris Hanszek, who has mastered albums for big dogs like Soundgarden, and The
Melvins, has agreed to put his genuine touch on the Under Sin album, which let’s us know that this isn’t another
garage band to shake a stick at.
After listening to their songs on Reverbnation (www.reverbnation.com/UnderSin), it was more than obvious that I
had to meet these guys. Their song, “Last and Cursed” had me after the first lyric line. Without a doubt, they have
a strong hold on how to put emotions into a song.
Something else I found that is extremely rare with upcoming bands, is construction. You can strum a good set of
notes, mix it with some decent lyrics, but Under Sin is clearly going for gold here. Melodies and memorable riffs
with feeling, and genuine emotion, are what they specialize in. They are taking overplayed, radio music by the
balls here, and you all should be there to embrace it.
Don’t be a lbum to take over. Support them by going to a show, getting their merch
from us at om, or just message them on Facebook to let them know they’re kicking ass.
Stay tuned for a special review I’m gearing up for with our friends from Tyranny Theory, and special guests.
Rambunctious interviews call for interesting reviews! Rock on,
Merchandise at adio.com
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