It's "Anarchy" at the Meridian

Lately, as it seems rock music has reached its creative zenith and is now whizzing endlessly in a postmodern spin cycle, revolutionary bands are reuniting to teach the young copycats what's what. Wire, Gang of Four, X and Mission of Burma are just a handful of influential punk/postpunk outfits that have gotten back together for another go. Then again, maybe one reason for reconvening is to ensure that no tribute bands crop up. Case in point: the Sex Pistols Experience.

Billed as "the world's leading and only worthwhile tribute show to one of the most influential bands of all time," the Sex Pistols Experience is a tongue-in-cheek rock and roll touring act comprising five British actor-musicians hand-picked to re-create the onstage shenanigans of the legendary punk rockers. Johnny Rotten is now "Johnny Forgotten"; Sid Vicious is "Kid Vicious"; and there's even a staged groupie incident with "Nancy Spunked'on." Naturally, the band's set includes the Pistols' best-known output, from "God Save the Queen" to "Pretty Vacant" and "Anarchy in the UK," probably played with a glossier sheen than the original lineup ever managed to muster, even on their mid-'90s Filthy Lucre reunion tour. The Sex Pistols Experience may be relatively sober and somewhat scripted, but until the reunion, it's all we've got. Let the pogoing begin at 7 p.m. For tickets, call 713-225-1717 or visit www.meridianhouston.com. $10 to $15.
Wed., Feb. 1