WHO: SideSixtySeven
WHERE: The Boot Pub
WHEN: Jan. 7
A road smash in gnarly Los Angeles traffic didn’t knock Vancouver’s SideSixtySeven off their feet for long, as they are returning to punk rock their way into Whistler’s music arena this week.
The five-man crew have been spending the past couple of months in L.A. recording their first full length CD, due to be released in March under the Bad Idea Records label. Having another vehicle plow into the back of their van and reduce it to half its size didn’t help matters much. Fortunately however, it happened in front of the L.A. Police Academy so it was a clear-cut case and all the band equipment was already in the studio. Bad Idea Records president, Kevin Angel says the bands’ injuries have mended and it’s time to rock again. The new album More Stitches Than Riches follows the release of their six-song EP Inspired , two years ago.
When asked to define SideSixtySeven music, the lads certainly don’t come back with a straight answer – "the speed of D.R.I, the passion of Suicidal Tendencies, the rhythm of Iron Maiden, the unity of NoFX and a touch of Johnny Cash attitude." Sounds interesting.
SideSixtySeven members include guitarists Kerry Cyr and Darrin Agnew, Shawn Colig on bass, Rich Elliot on drums and "E.N." on lead vocals. They have a Whistler connection after helping IFSA Freeskiing Champ Jeff Holden by playing benefit concerts to aid Holden’s international tour.
Like much of the new punk music emerging in North America during the last 10 years, Agnew says SideSixtySeven is not a typical "Oy Oy, kill the queen" punk rock band.
"We’re definitely fast and aggressive," he explained. "I grew up listening to DRI and Suicidal Tendencies, and the band members all listen to different bands. We don’t sound like anybody, really."
SideSixtySeven do, however, credit heavy metal icons such as Iron Maiden for influencing their sound, along with more contemporary punkers such as NoFX.
Fast music aside, it appears SideSixtySeven member have no plans to slow down their fast-lane lifestyle either. Having recently come off a relentless touring schedule across western North America, the next plan is to tour Canada this summer to promote their latest release. Let’s hope their next touring vehicle has good bumper bars!
