Lions/ Amplified Heat @ Emo’s
Emo’s is slowly becoming one of my favorite spots in town. Besides the fact that I’ve seen some of my favorite live shows there, there are a lot of hot ladies…a LOT of hot ladies. But, I digress. Except for a couple of bands, I’m usually not a fan of local music. Then I saw Lions and Amplified Heat. My friend Jessica loves these guys and finally guilted me into catching a show. I didn’t regret it.
Lions hit the stage like an electric sledgehammer to the face. These guys have a large local fan base, and it’s clear why. It’s been a while since I’ve seen a local band with this much energy on stage. Lion’s stage presence is just as tight and energetic as their sound. Their music is reminiscent of Fu Manchu, but with a slight Southern twist. Every song had a driving beat, and they never let up on the crowd. I’m a guitar nut, so I really enjoyed the sound these guys got. Lead on a Fender Jaguar, rhythm on an Epiphone of the ES variety, and the bass player on a Rickenbacker. I haven’t seen someone rock the Rickenbacker like this guy, since Cliff Burton. Lions
Afterwards, Amplified Heat hit the stage with just as much fire. Amp Heat turned it up to eleven and laid it down. Similar in sound to Lions, except with a bluesier feel. No ballads, just a wall of sound. It’s no wonder they call themselves Amplified Heat, their sound is warm, frenetic and driving. Amplified Heat
Lions and Amplified Heat definitely compliment each other on the same bill. Festivals like SXSW and ACL may make Austin the live music capital of the world, but it’s bands like these that keep Austin burning 365 days a year. -Tony