There are certain bands that I’ve written about that have left a truly lasting impression on me. Spirit In The Room is definitely one of those bands. Ever since I heard them a couple years ago, I knew that there was something special about this band. There is a real element of passion, excitement, artistry and danger that comes with each song and then when you mix in the live show, it all comes together to make for something spectacular.
It had been a minute since I had seen Spirit In The Room live but, that didn’t matter. The moment they took the stage, it was like I was seeing them for the first time again. The way the show started drew the audience into a trance and truly captivated those in attendance. It was all a calm before the storm like scenario because, the moment you were truly lost in it, BANG, all hell broke loose with a ferocious scream and a pummeling thunder of bass, drums and guitars. Dennis R. Sanders along with his live band Darren Howard (Bass, Synth, and Vocals), Kevin Bombay (Guitar), Brian Skipworth (Guitar), and Philip Bailey (Drums) are not messing around when it comes to performing and playing these songs live. I would even say, they are the best band in Los Angeles. Each and every song performed this evening was executed with precision but also with a take no prisoners approach. Songs like “But It Do,” “Sunset Nightmare,” “The Future Is Immediate,” “Monetary Prayer,” and Now That You’re Dead” were some of my favorites played this evening. As the show ended, I immediately wanted more but, that just means I’ll have to go see them again and again just to get my fix. What a great performance and band Spirit In The Room is. GO SEE THIS BAND LIVE!!!!
Also playing this evening was Elephant Rifle. I wasn’t familiar with them but, I was immediately intrigued when they started playing. These guys have a really cool, psychedelic approach to their Black Sabbath riffs along with some really engaging shoegaze elements and a good helping of noisy punk to make something that is enticing and provocative. Like Spirit In The Room live, Elephant Rifle too has a take no prisoners approach to their live show, making their set full of unexpected moments and sweaty shirtless hugs. I will definitely be checking out more from Elephant Rifle.
This show was just what was needed for starting 2020. The venue was intimate enough to make this even more special and both bands really delivered the goods. There were a few moments while watching and soaking it all in that my friend and I were about to start a circle pit from all the energy emitting off the stage. As I mentioned above, Spirit In The Room is THE BEST LIVE BAND IN LOS ANGELES. I truly believe that. Go see them for yourself and you’ll know why I say that.
Spirit In The Room:
Elephant Rifle:
Review and Photos By: Brian Lacy
audioeclectica 