Buckcherry And Art Of Dying Recap

Its the largest crowd I've seen at The Mesa Theater so far. Granted, I've been in Junction only a couple months and seen a half dozen shows, but the venue last night was full and the crowd seemed to thoroughly enjoy Buckcherry and Art of Dying.

I arrived late and only caught a couple Children 18:3 tunes. From what I've heard online and at the show, they're a band to be reconned with. I did get a chance to visit with vocalist and bass player Lee Marie. She's very cool and we were already making plans for their return.

Art of Dying, the original headliner of the show, showed why most nights they should be the top biller. This Canadian band is the real deal. There's rock stardom in their DNA. Bassist Cale Gontier is the cousin of Adam Gontier, the lead singer of Saint Asonia and former lead singer of Three Days Grace.

The band rocked it hard. They also showed their softer side, and had the crowd lighting their phones, with their hit song "Sorry". A very solid set and nice work all around.

However, no question the majority was there to see Josh Todd and Buckcherry. And these guys did not disappoint. Josh is the consignment front man. Freaking out the ladies as he slips off an article of clothing every few songs until he's down to just his jeans and boots. His moves have a touch of Jagger, a hint of James Brown, and a little Axel all rolled into one.

I've seen the guys several times over the years. They've always been solid live and bring attitude, with their hard hitting sound. I was down front and the crowd was in non-stop motion and sang along to all the hits, "Lit Up", "Sorry", and of course "Crazy Bitch". The treat was hearing the "15" album in its entirety and the crowd was not disappointed. Overall, it was a great night of rock. For those of us that ventured out on a Tuesday, it was well worth that tired feeling all day today to stay up late with Buckcherry.