Throwback Thursday: For the brave 40-or-so in attendance at Cafe Colonial last Thursday, it was clear that Hatchet Job stole the show. Featuring members of sadly defunct acts Pounded Clown, Los Huevos, Filibuster, Scenes From The Struggle and more, this was one for the Sacramento band history books. Also on the bill was Government Flu from Poland along with Sacramento’s Cross Class and Bad Outlets.
Led by Ed Hunter (guitar and vocals), Hatchet Job ripped through a raucous, upbeat set that recalled early Clash, British reggae and oi! punk rock. And while the frontman struggled to coerce concertgoers to move closer to the stage, there was no shortage of approval and head nods.
Some of the group’s quirkiest numbers included “Fryolator Man,” “Kidney Stone” and the oddly-yet-appropriately titled “Disremember,” which proved the quartet was comfortable playing cut time and straightforward grooves.
Drummer C.B. laid down some awkward grooves and played traditional style—loose grip like the jazz greats—in one hand and straight on the other with great effect, while bassist Alan Fulstone provided the low-end rumble. Guitarist Bill Econome filled in the dead spots with cool, simplistic lead licks rather than applying speed and nonsensical notes. A snare drum broke mid-set, but that didn’t stop highlights such as “Torture Drone” and the shuffling rhythms of “Mack The Knife.”
Check out Cafe Colonial if you haven’t already. Shows are cheap and always all-ages, with ample space to play video games, a cool bar, great staff and beer prices that rival your supermarket.
(SN&R)