Wednesday, Nov 5th 2003
El Rio - San Francisco, CA
VARIETY PACK #9

Karen and Rosie from Clevergirl put on a monthly gig at El Rio. And this month, one of their bands cancelled, and we were called to fill in.

We opened the show at the crack of 8pm on a Wednesday. And it was a sweet little evening with Patron and music.

Terese Taylor and Rob, her drummer played after us. Karen found them at Brainwash months back during a low-key acoustic set. And always thought they might rock out if given the chance. And so they did. Great song writing, witty, biting lyrics and Cat Powerish mood with much more groove. Excellent. And their latest cd is the bomb diggity.

Then there was Carney Ball Johnson. This is Ralph Carney (who played on some Tom Waits recordings) with Kimo Ball of Griddle on Bass, and a drummer whom we didn't meet. Creepy, funny, wierd soundtrack music with horns, shakers and the longest harmonica you ever did see.

The Nubs played too. They were this pretty well-known punk band back in the 80's. They had hits and stuff. And now two of them are still together crankin' out the stripped-down punk jams with a new drummer named GENO!!!! - great dude.

Lastly was Fix with a Friend: the druggy-political punk band consisting of our beloved Mike Malazzo on bass, and Rosie of Clevergirl on drums. They had 15 minutes to play, and they made use of every minute. And low and behold, Mike can sing!! What's that Mike? you being sensative now? Shhheeeeaat!

Thanks to those who braved the crappy cold, wet weather to join us.