Contributed by Andrew Stephan
Arena rock gets a bad name these days, and perhaps rightfully so. It’s been a long time since it was musically interesting or culturally relevant. But Sheer Mag is changing that with their refreshing and more inclusive take on the genre. The Philly band are playing the Sinclair fresh off the July release of their first album Need to Feel Your Love, which showcases their unique brand of punk-influenced and soulful stadium rock. The album is strong throughout, but particularly enjoyable are riff-heavy “Rank and File”, the groovy “Pure Desire”, and an AC/DC-esque take on inauguration protests in “Meet Me In the Street”. This protest theme continues in “Expect the Bayonet” and “(Say Goodbye to) Sophie Scholl”, demonstrating the band’s commitment to social activism. They complement this with an equally strong commitment to jammable and danceable riffs and grooves, and the result is an exhilarating album with a strong social conscience. Note to whoever selects the music at the Garden: more Sheer Mag and less Gn’R.
Opening for Sheer Mag on 8/31 is Haram, a hard-charging punk band from NYC with Arabic vocals that should make for a rowdy live show. Also opening is the mellower Lost Balloons with a well-executed and wide-ranging offering of alternative rock. This is an all-ages show and promises something for every punk and rock fan to enjoy.
The details: The Sinclair, Cambridge, 7 PM doors, All Ages, $13 advance/$15 at the door TICKETS HERE
Listen to the bands:
Sheer Mag (Bandcamp)
Haram (Bandcamp)
Lost Balloons (Bandcamp)
*indicates an act local to Boston or New England
Boston Punk Rumblings 