Nekromantix, The Howlers, The Mutilators The Warsaw July 13, 2010
Last time Aftermath visited the Warsaw for its (not so) grand opening, the turnout was terrible. This time around, we were pleasantly surprised to see that some Houstonians actually showed up. The place was packed with psychobilly and punk fans who didn't try to hide their excitement, and it was a bit contagious; the lack of air conditioning didn't even get to us this time.
As far as Aftermath could tell, this was both the perfect concert for a Tuesday night - great for spicing up an otherwise dull work week - as well as a chance for the Warsaw to see some exposure. And if it keeps booking punk/rockabilly-esque groups, the place could see a serious boost in business from a group of fans who aren't too well-represented in Houston.
When we entered the Warsaw, we were greeted by an oversized baby onstage wearing a bloody diaper and bonnet, two surgeons in jumpsuits with a bloody guitar and a bloody cello and a drummer whose drums were covered with (can you guess it?) blood.
Hi, The Mutilators. Nice to meet you. We're Aftermath, and you just made us smile.
The group's attire must be a big selling point for live shows, but the music didn't disappoint either. Part of what made the Mutilators fun was the band's attitude, which could be surmised from the way they dressed.
They made a point to poke fun at themselves and remind listeners that psychobilly isn't a religion and doesn't have to be taken so seriously all the time. As The Mutilators enjoyed themselves onstage, the fans followed suit and let loose. We even saw one couple swing dancing... in leather pants, no less.
Next, The Howlers put on a strong performance, continuing The Mutilators' feel-good, silly, upbeat set. Their music was fitting with the rest of the bands performing, but the group's vocals incorporated screaming more than any of the others.
The moshers flocked together, having been patiently waiting through The Mutilators' set, and wreaked just enough havoc to get some attention. We saw someone's beer fly into the air, and just as we wondered in which direction it might be spinning, we got a few drops to the face. Yum. And free, too.
