They say they’re thrash metal, but the prevalence of infused Sabbath trickery makes these metal legends come off honest and pure. The Obsessed is one of the few doom metal groups to not ape Ozz et al.
Formed in 1980, in Potomac, Md., and after sailing under the names Warhorse and the Leather Nuns, the band put on a non-glitzy, non-schmaltzy sound that could be called punk more than anything else.
They’ve been at it for close to 40 years (that’s right, how do you think they go that good).
This mixed with denim leather ’n’ metal, the trio is grinding out results in a smoother groove and palatable tone. The Obsessed still let it rock. They look mean and sound meaner. Go on, get Obsessed… still.
Montage Music Hall, 50 Chestnut Street, Saturday July 30, 6 p.m. $20
Some Ska Band
(Photo: Some Ska Band)
Bon vivant bar band and rock steady raconteurs sprang to life in October 2011, to the thrill local ska fans whose members numbered in the slim. We want more.
Rochester needs an injection by a band with the know-how, the-can do, and thy will be done. But before you get the ska explosion and visits from out-of-town cats (like Washington, D.C.’s The Fuss next Wednesday Aug. 17 at Photo City Music Hall) you’ve gotta have a base of at least one band who knows the one -drop and the counter rhymes that drive fans— I can’t be the only one — crazy. Some Ska Band plays just this side of pure rocksteady in order to shake you outta your seat. They’re your guy. Hey you…
Some Ska Band plays Wednesday, Aug. 10 at Abilene Bar & Lounge, 153 Liberty Pole Way 7:30 p.m.
Here’s a comprehensive list of live shows in and around Rochester: Get Your Gig On
Frank De Blase is Rochester Beacon music writer. The Beacon welcomes comments from readers who adhere to our comment policy including use of their full, real name.