Punk Takes Center Stage at Star Community Bar

by Eric Antell

The Acid Freaks opened their recent Atlanta show at the Star Community Bar with a loud set. It was reminiscent of early 80s West Coast Punk, such as Black Flag (My War era), Aggression or the Accused.

The Dinos Boys followed up, with an original,  yet snotty, sound. One song, early in the set, sounded like Rick Springfield had taken a turbo train to a "Punk Rock Sleazeville."

The Dinos Boys seem to have perfected and run away with an early punk sound heard on their earlier records or the late 90ss band from Seattle — the Briefs.

The middle of the set took a stand up comedy turn, in a quick, big way (spearheaded by Chase Noles).

But, after 3½ minutes of jokes and antics, the band quickly changed course & played from the soul.

Third band on stage, The Biters.

From the first note, it was a "Chain Saw of Rock n' Roll" with video camera lighting and flashes from cameras following every move.  The music was as tight as it gets and didn't lack in the stage presence. Influences of Thin Lizzy, Alice Cooper (circa 1960s) and the New York Dolls, with hints of the Ramones, could be heard in the verses.

Then catchy, sing-long glam of the late 60s and 70s  commanded during the chorus. The crowd seemed to be hypnotized in a musical trance. Rather than having an ego or attitude, Tuk (the front-man) thanked the cheering crowd at every chance.

Headlining the night, was Moto. With a mixture of Rock n' Roll and early New York style punk.

Rather than loud noise, they played with finesse, bringing true "American Tradition" type rock 'n roll through the stage P.A.

Mr. Antell, of East Atlanta, is the drummer for the band, the Atagonizers ATL.