This month is special because I am introducing two new columns. This being the second entitled “Three To See”. It is about three bands that you must check out. Bands that are making a difference right in your own backyard. You want the best well here it is. I will be bringing you these two new columns periodically

Lightnin Bill Woodcock

I saw Lightnin Bill Woodcock play at the Scene in Glendale recently and right away I notice a power trio with veteran members from other LA bands. Lightnin Bill himself is one of the most recognized figures in the scene today with his giant chops he's like a rock‘n wolverine, playing guitar for Miss Derringer, The Bourbon Saints, this band, and who knows how many other solo gigs he is doing on any given night. Mr. Elvis Kennedy on bass, also in The Bourbon Saints, The Shocker, etc..etc.. And Cody James on Drums, he is also a busy guy being in Miss Derringer, and I believe a few more projects. Their style is a heavy electric blues explosion with a dirty country swampabilly swagger. Do you remember when Pop Rocks and Coca Cola would blow your head off? Well Lightnin Bill does just that. They played a great homage to Jimmy Hendrix’s Voodoo Child except theirs is called Hoodoo Child that was amazing. With all these vets from notable bands you would think that these guys would be good… well your wrong... their between good and great. Solid playing and ass kick’n songs make Lightnin Bill Woodcock a good pick on any night of the week. This band is a serious contender for best new artist. They bring something different to the table. Thanks guys for mixing it up and making going to see bands fun!
myspace.com/lightninbill

The Binges

What can one say about the Binges... for starters there a straight forward four on the floor Rock-N-Roll machine. They have a great buzz right now around LA with there constant playing and promoting, touring with Priestess in Canada at the moment doesn't hurt either. People ask me, JD do you think The Binges are the saving grace for the developing rock scene here in LA? My response, their on the right track. They have solid playing from all the players. Guitarist Mayuko Okai plays like Angus Young circa  If You Want Blood and sister Tsuzumi  Okai kicks the bass just as hard.

Drummer Skanky Smith is possessed by the power of rock-n-roll when he plays. Its either that or an epileptic seizure . Dylan Squatcho Mr. lead vox himself has the element of coolness  and a laid back feel to him at times . All together one top notch band among the LA scene to watch out for and check out!
myspace.com/thebinges

Dirty Sweet

 Here is a band from San Diego that has truly brought back the Classic Rock Sound but with an up to date flavor that taste oh so delicious. By taking elements from many a great band like Lynyrd Skynyrd, Neil Young, ZZ Top, even Sabbath and mixing it with Black Crows and Gavin Degraw they have managed to bring forth a familiar yet fresh sound to a rock sound of yesteryear. Having played SXSW this year and doing a well received residency at the Viper Room they are creating a buzz second to none.  Another giant leap is their amazing self produced CD entitled… of Monarchs and Beggars. The songwriting on the CD is very good but the true way to enjoy them is watching their live set. They all play with such emotion and conviction that one would think that they are all brothers and have grown up together. If you do not see this band you are missing out on something very special.
www.dirtysweetmusic.com