During the holiday season, many people have many different traditions that they work hard to keep alive. The boys in White Cowbell Oklahoma are no different. Clem, the Rev, Sarge, Hollis and Chainsaw Charlie brought their special brand of dirty country rock to Lee’s Palace this past Friday for the White Cowbell Oklahoma’s Annual XXX-Mess Extravaganza.
A White Cowbell Oklahoma show can only be described as a spectacle, and definitely not one for the faint of heart. Debauchery, nudity, foam phalluses that projectiled unidentified liquid (we’re hoping it was water) and Jagermeister showers are just some of the things one can come to expect from this eclectic band of music makers. Oh, and also some awesome rock and roll music. But of course, tis the season, so all of the aforementioned hijinks were bathed in Christmas cheer. The eruptive foam phallus was attached to a Santa Suited Chainsaw Charlie. The standard White Cowbell dancing damsels were dressed as Santa’s sexy little helpers, and the Jager flowed with jolly generosity.
White Cowbell Oklahoma have talent as well as showmanship in spades. Gritty vocals, thrashing guitars, pounding bass and drums, and of course a rhythmic hint of cowbell come together to produce a sound that can only be defined as dirty, down-home country progressive rock and roll. It may be many descriptors put together, but one would be remiss to try and pigeonhole this band. Their style is brash, their vocals are vulgar, and their mission is mischief and madness. And for all of that, they are worshipped by their fans. Men shout along with the song and stomp their feet, women dance on stage and wrestle on command, all for love of the music (or for fear Charlie and his chainsaw, who showed no mercy for toilet paper or innocent stuffed animals). Songs like “Black Mountain Top”, “Monster Railroad” and “Shot a Gamblin’ Man”, and set closing powerhouse track “Put the South in your Mouth” left the crowd spent, satisfied and feeling more than little dirty. Talk about a merry XXX-mess!
A White Cowbell Oklahoma live show is an experience, one to be had in multiples if luck is shining on you. If not, check out their recently released live album Viva Live Locos, available for download from iTunes and on their MySpace, and prepare to add a new favourite band to your playlist.
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