Pistols At Dawn
Surly Wench Pub, Wednesday, July 7The hard-working, self-promoting Phoenix band Pistols at Dawn made a stop in Tucson July 7 as part of their summer tour.
Supporting the release of their EP, Cobra Libre, PAD proved to be on the right track to make a name for themselves. Their 60-minute set showed three energetic musicians who are very comfortable in their craft.
The guitar-driven, alternative-rock trio played in the styles of Nirvana, Jimmy Eat World, Pearl Jam and Queens of the Stone Age. Such songs as "Under My Skin" had PAD sounding like a heavier Green Day, circa the Insomniac period.
Although it was a dead night at the Surly Wench Pub (formerly Guido's), Pistols at Dawn played a tremendous show. fazed by the lack of attendance and were enjoying the opportunity to be on stage. Guitarist and vocalist Tony Poer, bassist Brad Beamenderfer and drummer Chris McCoy played with tight musical chemistry throughout their set. Then again, the trio shares a house and practices non-stop.
"Nintendo" and "Insomniac" were reminiscent of Nirvana's In Utero-era. Complete with droning bass lines and thick, pounding drums, they both had well-executed tempo and harmony changes.
Well-composed, original music covering PAD's two-year lifespan wasn't the only highlight of their set. The band covered the Misfit's "Hybrid Moments" and "Where Eagles Dare," and Nirvana's "Molly's Lips." While staying true to their own sound, PAD paid homage to some of their favorite bands in the process.
An alternative, Tom Petty-ish guitar line kicked in PAD's last song, "If Licks Could Kill." Afterward, the band quietly stripped down their equipment and took advantage of their complimentary drink tickets.
The energy and passion of this band alone should cause crowds to flock to their shows, so be on the lookout for PAD's return.
For more information on PAD, visit pistolsatdawn.info.
