The buzz amongst the Twin Cities lately is about veteran ska-punkers Streetlight Manifesto and Reel Big Fish, featuring original singer Aaron Barrett, descending onto the Cabooze stage Thursday, December 8.
But, fans should not overlook the rising talents of the opening bands, Lionize and Rodeo Ruby Love.
In particular, Lionize has been gaining more attention. A new album is available for pre-order and will be released this week. Lionize continues to create original sounds combining sounds from various influences, bringing listeners a modern style of music. They are self described genre benders, which is a great description.
They cite riffing on stoner-rock, reggae, 70s rock, punk, and funk. A casual listen to Lionize and one can hear hints of bands like Canned Heat. Led Zeppelin, and Blood, Sweat, and Tears. The band also mingles with dub reggae using a bouncing organ sound courtesy keyboardist Chris Brooks.
In spite of Lionize's diverse span of influences, the band never stays past their welcome in any genre and manage to create a sound of their own. Listeners may hear a tinge of David Clayton Thomas, but Nate Bergman's vocals soon resonate to become his own.
Many bands are trying to capture the independent spirit, yet sound exactly like the next American Idol It is refreshing to hear a band like Lionize recycle forgotten music with buckets of originality.
Reel Big Fish, Streetlight Manifesto, Lionize, and Rodeo Ruby Love play The Cabooze, Thursday, December 8. Doors are at 6pm. $20, 16+.
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