Blackieballed

On learning that Patrick viewed W.A.S.P.'s Web site to assess the band, Lawless concluded that the co-owner's decision appeared to be based solely on the content of the band's act and not sinking bar receipts. While Patrick has every right to make that call, Lawless says, the decision smacks of suppression of free speech, in light of the sheriff's words and deeds. "To go back to Shakespeare, 'All power lies behind the throne,' " Lawless says. "[The First Amendment] was designed not to protect popular speech but unpopular speech. I'd like to ask [Williams] face to face, 'What gives you the idea that you can play judge and jury for the First Amendment?' He needs to go back and become familiar with the Bill of Rights, especially someone in his position. He should know the rules."

Despite all the fuss, Lawless feels Bahama Mama's will work out well. The club probably seats as many people as Silver City, which Patrick says holds approximately 200, but which appears to hold many more. "And between you and me," says Lawless, "[Patrick] probably did the right thing."

Blackie Lawless and W.A.S.P. are not allowed to perform at Silver City Extreme. The show was relocated at the last minute.

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More About

• Blackie Lawless
• Robert Patrick
• Guy Williams
• John Moulds
• Jimmy Higgins

Not according to promoter Moulds and soundman Hudson. They say Silver City broke a contract, which Moulds says he signed with Higgins and Rumfolo. "I can sue," says a disheartened Moulds, who also printed and distributed 3,500 flyers boasting the names "W.A.S.P." and "Silver City Extreme" together. "But what's the point?" Silver City's Patrick says his name is not on the contract and that he is consequently not responsible for adhering to it.

W.A.S.P. performs Sunday, April 2, at Bahama Mama's, I-45 at Holzwarth. For more information, call (281)353-8898.

Smart Jazz

Conrad O. Johnson's Music and Fine Arts Foundation is hosting Millennium Jazz Extravaganza II on Thursday, March 30, at the Wortham Center, Cullen Theater, 500 Texas Avenue. A silent auction will begin at 6:30 p.m., and performances start at 8 p.m. Along with the foundation's namesake, Debbie Allen, Phylicia Rashad and Tex Allen will also perform. Proceeds will benefit the foundation, which provides educational and scholarship opportunities to area music students. Tickets are $30 and $60. For more information, call (713)455-0239.

Really Big Shoe

Sidecar Pub has announced that MTV darlings Blink-182 will perform an April Fool's Day gig at the club, located at 11202 Huffmeister. A major band at the cozy but cool Sidecar? Hmmm, just remember what day it is.

E-mail Anthony Mariani at anthony.mariani@houstonpress.com.