Throw Rag

House of Blues, Anaheim

I've seen these guys three, make it eight, times now, every time as an opening band for somebody else. You ask me, though, they're good enough to stand on their own. They've got the following, that's for sure, although it may not be large enough for a HOB-sized venue. Anyway, I like 'em enough now to go to somebody else's show just to see them. So who are they anyway? Well, they ain't pretty, and they ain't the kind of guys you'd want to take home to impress your mom. But they are a hoot. Six guys total, one singer, one bass, one drummer, two guitars, and one guy who plays the washboard and two cowbells with a couple of spoons. Odd as it may sound, it works. They're loud, raunchy, fast, and have a great stage presence and it all comes off for a damn good show. Believe me, I've seen far worse than these guys, and while not everybody may like their music, they sure are a treat to watch on stage. Don't get me wrong, though, the music IS good, and one of these nights when I remember, I'll end up picking up one of their CD's since I can't seem to rip 'em off from OpenNap (just kidding). If you like psychobilly and love campiness, these guys are for you. Throw Rag is well worth your time, either as an opener or on a rare headliner performance.

Late note: Their CD is good! (I actually bought it)

Late, Late Note: Opening for Horton Heat two nights straight, Throw Rag seems to have calmed down a bit. That may be more of a reflection on the reception they got from the crowds who didn't really seem to get it. Oh well. I still love them.

You can find the washboard boys here.