I'm not one for venturing into the Valley, but when a buddy of mine invites me to see a co-worker's "up-and-coming" band, I simply can't resist. Having worked in radio and the music industry, I make it my duty to see as much new talent as possible. This attitude has allowed me to see New Brunswick, New Jersey's hometown post-hardcore heroes, Thursday in a basement, as well as emo-newbies Taking Back Sunday, Brand New, and Coheed & Cambria grace the infamous Birch Hill Nite Club's stage all in the same evening; granted, this was in 2001… but you know you're a little jealous! Don't get me wrong, Panic At The Disco (sadly, they've dropped their !) isn't hard on the ears, but with all the bands that sound like them, it's time to find new talent with a new sound. So this Jersey boy jumped into his Jeep and headed west for his own version of manifest destiny: finding tomorrow's supergroup, today.
Universal Bar and Grill would be the last place in Los Angeles County I'd expect to see a punk show, especially during The Lakers finals! Who would win this evening's competition: the sports bar's basketball loving locals or a three-piece rock group and their small group of adoring fans, including the bassist's mom? The Dedication took to the stage at 10pm--an hour later than expected, how very punk of them! The trio includes Brooke (guitar/vocals), Shannon (bass), and Ben (drums).
From their first song, it was easy to tell that this band's influences included Cali natives Green Day and Blink 182. Their set ranged from pogo-fused pop-punk to the alternative sounds of Blondie and The Cure. Importantly, it wasn't just the girls who were digging Brooke's piss and vinegar attitude; even the biggest Laker fan would take his eyes off of the game and give Brooke the attention she demanded during "Loser Ex-Boyfriend"- an ode to, you guessed it, a loser ex-boyfriend Pretty much everyone related to this catchy punk tune, regardless of the sex of their ex! In addition to their fun-filled pop-punk, the group's on-stage banter kept the audience laughing; Brooke and Shannon giggled in between songs, like two old friends catching up over a malt shake. Apparently, "boobies" is a tough word to say with a straight face. Thanks for that tidbit Brooke!
When the group's original singer left, Brooke proved her dedication by taking the baton; this is a band that just won't quit! They are currently recording a new album and will be featured on Fuse TV later this summer. Check out The Dedication on http://www.myspace.com/ thededication.
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Jason Goldberg
"Ex boyfriend" performed by Shawna, our biggest fan!!
Hope you're luving this last little bit of summer. Have you been out to The Airliner yet? We've been playing there lately & are really digging that punky East Side vibe. We've got a show there again on the 8th & really want you to come out to see what we do live. Music is always better in person. Rock & Roll!
