Show pick of the week
THE VINCENT BLACK SHADOW
Taking its name from the motorcycle in the Hunter S. Thompson novels, The Vincent Black Shadow strikes a hypnotic chord on “Fear’s In the Water” (Bodog Music). The debut disc came out earlier this year and often recalls the best of early No Doubt, with some Garbage sass and Save Ferris thrown into the mix.
But they’re definitely not a ska band. Guitarist Robbie Kirkham once told an interviewer that “I think ska music is cornball and cheesy.”
Kirkham, along with brothers Chris (bass/vocals) and Anthony (drums), plus singer Cassandra Ford are based in Vancouver. They cite influences ranging from film soundtracks (Angelo Badalamenti of “Twin Peaks” fame, Danny Elfman), Burt Bacharach and Megadeth to Faith No More, Blondie and classical music.
So far, they’ve logged time on the 2006 Warped Tour and shared stages with Joan Jett and Snow Patrol. The music video for single “Metro” got major play on Fuse TV and mtvU. Locally, KCXX took a shine to the sexy tune.
Catch them opening for Aussie band Sick Puppies on Friday night at X103.9 FM’s Very Merry X-Mas Party.
Doors open at 7 p.m. Hudson Theatre, 295 E. Caroline St., San Bernardino, $15, ticketmaster.com. A portion of proceeds benefit the Inland Empire chapter of the American Red Cross. All ages.