The band “Walk the Giant,” have a steely funk-rock-jazz-fusion sound, reminiscent of the hard-hitting hits of “Rage Against the Machine,” blended with a twist of dance-able back-beats. Energetic and catchy, Andrew (bass), Luis (voc.), Albert (guit), and Ramon (drum) have one of the more unique sounds currently flowing through the studio.

Ska ain’t dead, … it’s just been Gone-zo

It was fun and interesting to hear a real-live ska band here at the Hothouse. Sort of on the outs since the fall of “No Doubt,” ska music’s banner is apparently still being held high by this 9-piece group called, “Gonzo,” who do a pretty serviceable job with a particularly strong horn section and energetic vocals.

Inchoative future?

A band on the break-up, or stepping toward a bright, new future? I truly hope it is the latter as “Inchoative Disturbance” reunites after weeks on hiatus to audition some new faces. The heart and core of the group, Sarah (bass/guit), RJ (drum), and Glenda (voc./guit) play a blend of both original tunes, and choice covers that they pull off well with personality and charm. Oh, and they play “Sweet Child of Mine” better than you do.

OilSpill

We are happy to see our friends from “Oilspill.” Ruben (drums), Z (voc./guit), and co. pump out a very ear-friendly form of melodic-groove-rock that exists somewhere in between 90′s alternative (think “Collective Soul”), rock-ska (like “311,” “Sublime”), and 50′s revival swing (“Big Bad Voodoo Daddy”-ish), even dabbling in a little 70′s soul ala the “Jackson 5.” Blending rhythmic beats, snazzy riffs, and well-placed harmonies, this band grooves. Nice work.FYI, they’re looking for gigs, so if you know any one/place that could use some rockin’ beats, … 

- Kirk of the Hothouse … where music grows