Adam here. After playing a bunch of shows this year (122 of ‘em, mostly w/ AM Taxi) and going out to see a handful of gigs here in Chicago, I tried to narrow it down to the best five. Not an easy task. I try not to ever forget, but these five groups reminded me that there is indeed a reason why we do what we do.
5. Architects - October 7, Double Door in Chicago
Hey man, sick of hearing the same thing show after show? Nothing feels real anymore? Does the scene got you down, man? Well, stop complaining, watch the Architects from Kansas City and your soul shall be healed! This band has always been incredible live and we’re looking forward to touring with them this January. They played Riot Fest this year; apparently AC/DC’s been shagging the Clash and they made a baby…aw.
4. The Hold Steady - November 19, Otto’s in DeKalb
I had just gotten home from a short tour w/ AM Taxi, but I wanted to pack up and leave again as soon as I saw Hold Steady’s set last month at Otto’s. I had been listening for years but never got to see them play. They always came around when I was out on the road. The group is fantastic and loud, and the front man is a cartoon with a mic and a way with words.
3. Company of Thieves - March 19, ES Jungle in Indianapolis
Sometimes the best part of being on tour is getting to watch a band you love perform night after night. They play “Fire Song”, I think it’s called, and it gets me every single time! Goosebumps and the hair on the arms stand straight up. So good.
2. Vic Ruggiero & Band - December 4, The Lake in Brooklyn
I was on the road w/ Deals a few weeks ago. The “club” in Brooklyn was this dark speakeasy, flop house, rehearsal space, bar type place w/ a DJ spinning old ska 45‘s. Vic and two of the Slackers were there playing as a power trio. They did covers of the Sonics, Dion and the Belmonts as well as punked out Slackers songs. “Let’s try to remember how fun this was and maybe do it again sometime.” I hope so.
1. Larry and His Flask - August 10, Backstage at the San Diego Warped Tour
The people running Warped Tour took care of the bands. They gave us beer, dance parties and even delicious ice cream! But the best thing they ever gave us was Larry and his Flask. The guys set up after the show by the tour buses; 6 dudes, no PA system, no amps, no mics. Nothing but the real thing. Unbelievable! They did it again in Pomona and someone filmed it:
You got a top five? Share with us here or at facebook.com/amtaxi
