Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Punk Swap Meet-1/9/2016 Canoga Park, CA 


Saturday, January 9th 4 to 10PM $7 ($5 Before 6PM)
Performances by Circle One, Killroy, Glue Gun, Public Nuisance
and a Book Signing by Award Winning Author, Michael Essington.

Michael will be signing copies of his newest book, Born Frustrated, an autobiography about growing up in a Punk family during the earlier days of the Punk scene in Los Angeles, during the 80's and 90's
Here are a few comments about Michael, and his writing from some people you may know, or have heard of:

“Born Frustrated, is what a good writer shall carry as his curse
while on earth. Essington takes us on a stroll down memory lane.
Love for his deceased father, a trip to ‘a scene from deliverance’
to gain custody of his daughter is vividly described. I turned
the last page, recalling the boyhood charm in worn novels we
used to read and hold dear. Essington captures that. He has a
natural talent for telling us about his past in a delightfully honest
way. No anger, no undercurrent of hate. This story is pure, and
by that I mean true gifted writing about Americana at its best.”
-Zoe Hansen, Writer, Advocate & Fashion Designer

“I await the next book, I love your “punk rock” writing style, It’s like
being a shoulder cam over parts of your life.”
-Rikk Agnew, The Adolescents, Christian Death, Gitane Demone Quartet (GDQ)

“Born Frustrated completes Michael Essington’s “literary ménages
à trois,” which takes us on a reminiscent journey through many
of his experiences with family, friends, and co-workers in the San
Fernando Valley. I am once again reminded of some of my own
jarred memories from back in the 80s and 90s in almost every
chapter. His recollection of once-familiar landmarks and venues
takes me back down a memory lane of my own. I had forgotten
all about the Red Onion until I read this book’s first chapter. (I
think many of us have at least one or two Red Onion stories that
we will never forget!) Once again, Michael Essington’s colloquial
writing style had me engaged from start to finish. His stories are
forthright and entertaining, as they humbly pay tribute to the people,
places, and music that made those memories so unforgettable.”
-Dina Cox, vocalist for Man Wray

The Punk Rock Swap Meet is an all ages event with food and a full bar.
See you there, OK?

Saturday, November 21, 2015

RECORD REVIEW

The Action Swingers-Quit While You're Ahead


Not to be confused with current supergroup, the International Swingers, or the attractive and talented lounge duo, the Tarzana Swingers, The Action Swingers, boast a colorful and notorious musical legacy.

Formed in 1989, they burst out of the New York underground scene with their first 7 inch single, Kicked In The Head. Written in 15 minutes, rehearsed only once and recorded for $100, it became an immediate hit among discriminating music fans who appreciated this sarcastic jab at the then current state of the Garage/Punk scene.





Established by ex-Nightmares, and Pontiac Brothers, singer/guitarist/songwriter, Ned Hayden, the band went on to enjoy a successful career through most of the 90s, releasing a handful of memorable albums along the way. A number of notable East Coast musicians have graced the ranks of the Action Swingers, including the talents of, Julie Cafritz (Pussy Galore), Dinosaur Jr's J. Mascis (on drums), Bob Bert (Sonic Youth, Pussy Galore), Pete Shore (Unsane, Boss Hogg), Howie Pyro (Blessed, D Generation) and Bruce Bennett (A Bones) among others.
They toured extensively throughout Europe and developed a large fanbase there, receiving heavy airplay from John Peel, and glowing reviews in the then vital publication, NME. 


This new release on In The Red records, is the first vinyl issue of a compilation that originally came out on a Caroline CD in 1994, and included the early singles, plus additional unreleased recordings. The first 200 copies feature a striking black splatter on white vinyl pressing. To get your hands on a copy of the LP, and find out more about the Action Swingers, you can go to the In The Red Records website by clicking on the following link 
http://intheredrecords.com/collections/action-swingers


RECORD REVIEW
Gorilla Candy-Wild Tights, Wild Nights


This recent release by Gainesville, Florida trio, Gorilla Candy, is upbeat, engaging, and quirky. Their music contains a powerful pop spirit, with witty (and often suggestive) lyrics sung by vocalist/bassist, Vikoko Blackback, who is an endorsed artist of California's Daisy Rock guitars. While listening to this LP, one might recall other Punk/Pop Groups such as, the Waitresses, Killer Pussy and even at times the B52s. With quality musicianship, fun songs and well crafted production this reporter feels that Gorilla Candy is on their way to a bright and successful future. 


You can get a hold their album at Nook & Cranny Records http://nandcrecords.com/blog/ and visit their facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/gorillacandy/ 

Friday, October 2, 2015



BOBBY YERBAS MEETS A HOLLYWOOD WITCH-

The other day, fellow PNX News Correspondent, Bobby Yerbas, took a drive out to Hollywood, headed for a show at the Viper Room.
As he was driving down Sunset Blvd. he noticed an attractive woman hitchhiking, dressed all in black, and wearing a pointy hat.
Curious, he pulled over, and said "Hop In". The lady obliged, and Bobby promptly inquired, "What kind of woman are you?" She replied "I'm a Hollywood Witch."
Not entirely convinced, Bobby said "Prove It", so she blew in his ear, and he turned into a motel...