Villains of Verona

The big show this weekend here in Minneapolis was the White Light Riot CD Release. This concert will go down on my list as one of the Best Of 2007. The Alarmists played their usual solid set and White Light Riot definitely put on a show for the massive sold out crowd. The best part came at the end when lead Mike Schwandt literally flung himself into the crowd while singing "My Generation." It was almost too much to handle.

I always love finding new obsessions, and this party at the Fine Line left me with one. The Villains of Verona is a band from the outskirts of Chicago, but their sound has a universal appeal. They mix some classic bubblegum pop with heavier rock riffs, which creates a need to kick off your shoes in order to get down and boogie. Lead singer Rachel Verona's vocals will bring you back to the beginnings of Blondie... if she'd sung more poppy tunes. Think "The Tide is High" without the ska... wait, is that possible? As for the other band members, I hesitate to call them a "backup band" as this quintet seems to contribute equally to the sound being blasted forth.

The sold out crowd at the Fine Line seemed to appreciate the VOV and there was dancing to be had. I saw more than one ass shaking out there. This new discovery is a reminder to you. Show up for opening bands. You may find something wonderful you weren't even looking for.

Stream some music:
Villains of Verona on PureVolume

For more on the Villains of Verona, check out these links:
Official Website (must have Flash)
Villains of Verona MySpace