Jim Jones Revue @ Doug Fir

Damn. That was an amazing show. The Jim Jones Revue roared through their set like a greased up Oldsmobile 88 pushing into the red. Never letting down, each song they seemed to reach new sonic heights, the power and noise almost obscuring the band's tightness. Every time the guitarist, Rupert Orton, decked out in full leather, stepped up to the front he delivered tight blasting solos. His understated demeanor contrasting with his thunderbolt riffs. The keyboardist, Henri Herbert, off to side, banging wildly like a manic Jerry Lee Lewis. Although each member's performance was impressive and wild, it was clear who owned the stage. From start to finish, Jim Jones showed what a frontman could be -- an argument for what rock n' roll should be. His dramatic and powerful gestures reminded me of a pissed off and crazy Al Pacino, with a little of David Bowie's flare. He postured, flirted, preached, and directed, all the while his hair and sweat flying. I have no idea how he can bark all night every night, nor that a howl could be so textured. It was as mesmerizing as it was impressive.

Simply put, if you like rock n' roll, you need to see this band.