BrightestYoungThings: MetalDC: Baroness / Earthless @ RNR Hotel

all words and photos: Mike Danko

First off, let me say that any metal head or connoisseur of fine musicianship was in for a big treat. Kicking things off was US Christmas that had to cram themselves on to the small stage of Rock n Roll Hotel. That didn't seem cramp their music reached every head in the room, front to back. While I made way to the bar half way during their set there was not one person mesmerized by the eerie waves from the monitors. I thought I was caught in the middle of a miniature Transiberian Orchestra recording the musical score of a sci-fi flick. It's about that time of the year anyway.

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Earthless, however took the night in a different direction with nothing but wailing guitars solos that never seemed to end. For a second I though Led Zeppelin got back together and lost 40 years. Between sets I had the opportunity to have a brief interview the drummer, Mario Rubalcaba.

Me: Ever notice how guys never talk to each other while peeing?
(without much hesitation) Mario: Yeah. What's that all about?
Me: Good set, man!
Mario: Thanks, dude. I'm glad you liked it.
Me: How are you feeling?
Mario: Hungry. Tired.
Me: How so?
Mario: This is first stop on the tour and we had just drove out here from San Diego.
Me: Then that would explain the fatigue. And the hunger?
Mario: The catering just arrived.
Me: Well, get to it. Don't let me hold you up. Take care!
Mario: Thanks. You too.

And finally, Baroness. Everyone in place eagerly awaited the first song to blow their ears off with John Baizley's roaring voice and soul-piercing eyes. Baroness warmed things up with Jake Leg and A Horse Called Golgotha from their latest release, Blue Record. This album has taken the longest to grow on me for some reason. But here is how I judge band. A band will score major points if they can convince me with a live performance that their record is good after at first having doubts about it. Their set opened my eyes to more of the southern rock and prog-rock flavors. Before too long of a wait they treated us to Isak followed by The Birthing, both of which feature smooth blend of metal and post-hardcore. All very good musicians but the drumming provided by Allen Blickle is the key ingredient that allows for all the technical musicianship to meet the hard crunch that gives Baroness their unique sound. And what a better place than Rock n Roll Hotel to host this event.

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