The streets of Philadelphia were paved with plaid as The Mighty Mighty Bosstones answered the call of a final show at the Trocadero this past Thursday.
Skinnerbox opened with solid set of skankalicious vibes seasoned with a tasteful blend of keyboard tangents and rather impressive guitar licks (that I'm sure, had they been more audible, would've given them a flavor I've yet to hear). At times they struggled in controlling the tempo, but made up for it with a dangerous invitation of onstage vocal participation from audience members. I'd love to hear their album, but as the singer raced a six-pack to the end of their time, it was only the "Bosstones" that could satisfy the thirst of impatient fans.
The Massachusetts based band has always given credit to the source of their strength, and it's that mutual bond of respect with fans that gives their shows a one of a kind intensity. "I should be tuckin' in for bed, getting ready to get up at 5 O'clock in the morning, getting ready to roof a house, or move somebody's furniture," said vocalist Dicky Barret. If you do get to see them play, chances are you'll get to meet some of them before the show, and more often then not, have them sign random personal objects when they're through.
When I recall the unsettling staleness that rests in my soul, I am reminded of the fan whose semi-conscious body I helped drag to the back of the club. True, it was I who altering his state of mind, as I leapt from the stage and came crashing down upon his head, but I am sure he was like that when he came in. How this has any sort of relevance to anything, rests in the fact that the "Bosstones" just finished working on their album due out in February. Not that they didn't put on a show worthy of Constantinoplin Kings, but that they seemed worn. From what they chose to preview off their upcoming album, I'm ready to pay even Tower Record prices for a copy.
So, if you've already come this far, you'll hear me say that even if I hadn't gotten in for free, I'd still have organized illegal cock fighting tournaments to raise the funds to get me in the door.