Date of show: May 26, 2011
Shot of choice: Jager
Topanga’s music is full of a boozy energy that makes for a lively, crowd-pleasing set. This local 4-piece is comprised of Stefan Babcock (vocals, guitar), Nestor Chumak (bass, vocals), Steve Sladkowski (guitar, vocals) and Zack Mykula (drums). For the most part, their songs are quick hitters that easily get the crowd moving and singing along. In fact, most of the crowd at Sneaky Dee’s gathered right up against the front and belted out their big choruses like that of the catchy “Lionheart.”
The guys in Topanga give the impression that they’re just there to have a good time and to make sure the crowd is having just as much fun. While Babcock fronts the band with such exuberance, Sladkowski revealed that Babcock isn’t quite as skilful of a guitar player. He quickly made up for it by saying, “That’s okay. You’ve got such a pretty voice.”
Currently they’ve got their EP available for free from their Bandcamp. It’s a lot of fun, so check it out! But be sure to catch them live, as Topanga’s energetic live show is how they’re meant to be experienced.
It was such a treat to see Wildlife again. Dean Povinsky fronts this exceptionally energetic 5-piece. He is joined by Graham Plant (guitar, vocals), Tim Daugulis (keys, vocals), Derek Bosomworth (bass, vocals) and Dwayne Christie (drums). Wildlife’s full-on energy is evident by how sweaty these guys get. With that kind of energy, the crowd had no choice but to respond in kind by screaming along with the group chant-like vocals and pushing right up against the stage. Wildlife’s extremely fun set was a great way to end such a great night of music.
Grounders played after The Sweet Mack, a set I happened to miss. Since I’ve last seen Grounders, they’ve added a new member. This 4-piece turned 5-piece is made up of Andrew Davis (vocals, guitar), Dan Busheikin (guitar, keys), Michal Searle (bass), Rob Canali (drums) and Evan Lewis (guitar, percussion). Their quirky pop is highlighted by digital sounds and Davis’ unique vocals. While the turnout was still growing as the set went on, there were notable fans in the audience that had the band smiling. As the band continues to play more and more, it seems they grow tighter as well and I’m looking forward to seeing them develop.
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