Among the most venerable of independent record labels in the Midwest, Crustacean Records is throwing a grand old party for its fans on Friday night at the High Noon Saloon. Here are a few band names you might recognize: Screamin' Cyn Cyn and the Pons, Droids Attack, Things Fall Apart, Quija Radio and The Gusto will each be taking the stage for this first of two nights of recording for an upcoming DVD release highlighting the label's history and roster.
Launched in the early '90s, this Madison-based label has since built an impressive roster of bands and music.
The opening act for the evening will be perennial faves Screamin' Cyn Cyn and the Pons, a band of musical mischief makers who describe themselves as "art-rock without pretension, twee-core without sentimentality, punk rock without pants." Always a good time, the show promises to be especially fun as it will be their homecoming after returning from their first ever 20-show tour of the American West.
Ouija Radio, the second act of the evening, joins us from their home in Minneapolis and brings their unique indie rock style along for the ride. A band that lists everyone from Frank Zappa to Bauhaus to Debussy as influences, Ouija Radio is known for earth-shaking rock-n-roll that defies easy categorization.
The newest addition to the Crustacean Records fold, The Gusto will be putting on their finest in hopes of winning over crowds in anticipation of the release of their first full-length later this year. Following them, no-holds-bar metalworkers Droids Attack will storm the stage and bring their intensely fun, shit-kicking style of rock. Rounding out the night's entertainment is local hardcore punk band Things Fall Apart, their first show in town since June.
The DVD will feature a documentary about the label, music videos by its bands, and a two-hour live concert feature from its showcases at the High Noon. The second night of shooting will be on December 15, where locals Mad Trucker Gone Mad and The Skintones will be joined by John Kruth & The Eva Desctruction Orchestra, Drunk Drivers, and Awesome Snakes.
Crustacean Records is encouraging fans of any or all of their bands to show up for the show at 8:30 p.m. on Friday and be loud and supportive, dangling the possibility of being an extra in the film as further incentive to pull in the crowds. The low cover charge and the fact that the show is 18 and up should also help to bolster attendance.
The showcase should prove to be an excellent opportunity for show-goers to get a whole lot of bang for their buck, both for long-time fans and people looking to get familiar with a pillar of Madison's rock scene. Just don't expect to sit through it -- these bands bring the kind of high energy, catchy and infectious tunes that force you up out of your seat to thrash the night away.
