Pretty much everyone here at the Sugar Mill Saloon (located in Tarzana, CA) on this weekend, was a rocker. And a lifer. Meaning that they’re doing what they’re doing (rocking, playing in a band, listening to music, drinking, whatever) because it’s just what they do. It’s in their blood. Some are older than others, and some are not, but young and old, all were there because of what they love and what they do. The opening bands for Pat Todd & The Rankoutsiders were also lifers. In fact, I recognized many of them from other rockin’ bands that I’ve been seeing around and a few were even in different other bands together.
And it was so nice to see Pat Todd get so much adoration and respect from each and every opening band and person in the room. He deserves it too. Speaking of being a “lifer”, Pat Todd has been rocking pretty hard, having the songs and the chops to gain the well deserved respect that is earned by doing what you do and sticking to it. Pat has been playing rock ‘n roll for over 45 years now, and he probably wasn’t even the oldest person in the room!
The night started off with Lights Out Levine, whom I guess is the name of the just the guitarist that was swigging whiskey while playing acoustic guitar. He was the bassist for Prima Donna (which is why I thought he looked familiar!) and the Superbees. Not bad acoustic music! Along the lines of solo Paul Westerberg, doing a variety of styles from rock to country-ish, to just catchy acoustic songs. I would’ve liked to have seen him with a full band. He gave Pat Todd quite a few “shoutouts” (as did all the bands!), including one where he brought out the guitarist for the Blessings, Mike Gavigan, to do a cover of the Dictators’ “Who Will Save Rock ‘n Roll?”
MOGG was up next and more of the same, but louder and a full band. So more like early Replacements than solo Paul Westerberg. Check this out:
Here’s a picture of MOGG playing on this night:
The Blessings were up next. They had a great look and were reminiscent of the Black Crowes. Nice solos, some good rockin’ songs. Check out their new album called “Woke Up With The Noonday Devil” here.
And then it was time for Pat Todd & The Rankoutsiders. They pretty much destroyed everyone with their high energy, fast paced set of full on rock ‘n roll. A couple obscure rhythm & blues covers along with their own high quality originals. So amazing. But they didn’t play long enough! Then again, 3 hours wouldn’t have been enough, if you ask me. Always keep the audience wanting more! They’re getting ready to tour Australia in November and will not be playing the same set twice. Pat and I tried to connect for the interview this weekend, but we were unable to get our schedules together in order to get this done properly. Hopefully soon! In the meantime, please enjoy these pictures!
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