Over the course of a twenty year career, The Aquabats have made a name for themselves in both the musical and comedic worlds; their matching costumes and masks, designed to look like those of a superhero, have added an extra dimension to their music and in particular their live performances - their alleged crime-fighting is a staple of the comedic aspect of their gigs. That’s not to say, though, that these alternative personas and the focus on comedy has been developed purely as a distraction from their music; they’ve proven their diversity over the past couple of decades, having orginally started out as an eight-piece playing ska-influenced material, and gradually going on to reinvent themselves as a new wave act.
The current lineup includes two original members, frontman The M.C. Bat Commander and bassist Crash McLarson, as well as Jimmy the Robot on keyboards, Ricky Fitness behind the drum kit and Eagle ‘Bones’ Falconhawk on guitar. The sophisticated development of their comedic characters mythology has spawned a television series, ‘The Aquabats! Super Show!’, and is a major part of their live shows, too, with athletic mock fights and even fire-breathing from The M.C. Lars Commander amongst the onstage antics that they've made their signature.
The Aquabats! This is far and away one of my favorite ska-punk bands and they put on one of the most fabulously entertaining and interactive shows of anyone in this genre. Christian Jacobs has been heavily involved with the scene for years, as well as TV shows like Yo Gabba Gabba! The unique take on ska-punk with a superhero theme is extremely entertaining.
The whole band gets into costume and character for the show -- in the back you'll get a video screen portraying a number of animations and skits. The group does skits on stage, and their antics will leave you in stitches. The set does not have the grand and elaborate sets like some of the more popular artists, but they will be sure to interact and make you feel like you are part of the show.
The crowd at an Aquabats! show is one of the most fun and interesting collections of people you're likely to see at a show this size. Several hundred people who are really in tune with the feel of the music and the atmosphere makes it very personal and enjoyable. There will be dancing, moshing, and singing to your hearts content.
Expect to hear a wide variety of songs off of all the studio albums, including your favorites from 'The Return of the Aquabats' and 'The Fury of the Aquabats'. There's nothing better than being swept away in 'Super Rad' or 'Red Sweater' live and in-person!
If you dislike heavy music then look away now because this is heavy...this is Koffin Kats! Now with a name like Koffin Kats I think it's pretty clear what you are about to see. Dont worry they dont physically put adorable cats in coffins, I meant it in a metaphorical sense. Koffin Kats, spelling both words incorrectly for full effect, literally slay the stage. They destroy their intsruments for all to see and they love it. I'm writing alot about how heavy it is but actually their chord progression does sometimes delve into a lighter, more of a Major sound, but the tempo is forever fast. It's electrifying. Solo's througbhout the show which cause girls to scream uncontrollably, and haircuts which even a blind grandma would stop and say 'oh my...' Koffin Kats are their own act, they stand high and almighthy and so they should.