Photos / Live Review: English Beat, Fishbone @ Rams Head Live (2010.02.24)
Photo credit: Shantel Mitchell
I knew about this show for awhile and I had every intention on going, but the day of the show I was exhausted. All I wanted to do was curl up on my sofa in my pajamas and watch a movie or something. However, I grabbed my camera and headed downtown despite my reluctance. I arrived just shortly before Fishbone was scheduled to go on and was surprised to see an empty Rams Head! I was shocked for I had heard that the DC show this past Monday was packed! I grabbed a seat and had a drink at the bar and reflected on the first time I saw Fishbone. I was in college and remember getting to the 9:30 Club a bit late. Fishbone was already playing and the place was packed, but even from the back of the club trying to see over heads and arms, I had an awesome time. English Beat play frequently in the area, but surprisingly I have never seen them perform live, so knowing my Fishbone experience and the fact that English Beat are classic I was anticipating a great evening.
Fishbone took the stage and played for an hour – at least! I really lost track of time because their performance was dynamic. Watching these guys play and perform after so many years is just exciting! I had so much fun during their set that I forgot I was tired and even hesitated going to the show in the first place. Their set included a great list of classics including “Ma and Pa,” “Cholly,” and “Party at Ground Zero.” We were even treated to a special guest appearance by HR from Bad Brains! After their set, most of them made their way out to socialize with the fans which was completely awesome.
English Beat was headlining for the evening and took the stage just after 11 PM. Fishbone had a very relaxed photo policy (I basically shot the whole show from the front), but English Beat had first two and last two songs. After such an energetic Fishbone set, I must admit I was a bit bored with English Beat. I really love their music and enjoy listening to them from time to time, but their live performance fell a bit flat and I rolled after about the 4th song. I did get to hear “Tears of a Clown,” though! So, whether you are a Fishbone fan, an English Beat fan, or love them both – enjoy the pictures from the show!